YMCA cuts 110 positions in SWO

YMCA of Southwestern Ontario cuts 110 positions across region in pandemic fallout

THE YMCA OF Southwestern Ontario is eliminating 110 jobs ― about five per cent of its workforce ― due to operational impacts brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic.  

The layoffs come amid dipping revenues and lower staffing requirements since fewer people are participating in YMCA programs.

“During the pandemic, people are using our facilities less and the safety standards, while necessary to contain COVID-19, limit the amount and type of programming we can offer,” says  Elyse Sheare, the YMCA’s VP of marketing and communications for SWO.

According to the organization, the majority of the jobs impacted are part-time and had not been active since the pandemic began in mid-March when facilities were temporarily closed.

Locations from Woodstock to Windsor are being affected.

Officials say service levels will continue as they have under Covid-19 safety protocols at all locations.

“Despite these changes and challenges, our branches remain open and we will continue to serve our communities with the same passion, safety, and quality that people expect from the YMCA,” says Sheare.