The YMCA of Greater Monmouth County in Wall Township is slated to receive $1,200,000 in federal funding championed by Rep. Chris Smith (R-Manchester) for a major renovation and revitalization project that will allow its Camp Zehnder program to expand its childcare services for low-income and moderate-income working families in the area.

          A 140-acre day camp serving families in Southern Monmouth and Northern Ocean Counties, Camp Zehnder provides affordable and accessible outdoor learning opportunities for nearly 500 children each summer, allowing campers to build confidence while participating in activities such as archery, swimming, fishing, rock climbing, zip-lining, cycling and more.

          “The YMCA of Greater Monmouth County provides much-needed childcare facilities during summer months for working families while schools are out of session, providing parents with predictable schedules to ensure their ability to continue to work year-round,” said Rep. Smith, who personally secured the funds for the project as one of his congressional earmarks that were signed into law on Saturday as part of a negotiated budget.

          “This revitalization plan will not only create jobs but also expand community programs for children and families, allowing the YMCA of Greater Monmouth County to serve almost twice as many individuals and provide new and increased offerings and services,” said Smith.

          The $1,648,000 project—which has received considerable community support from local social service agencies as well as local, county, and state officials—is the first phase of a comprehensive capital improvement and modernization plan that is expected to cost a total of $4.35 million.

          According to a recent study of the YMCA of Greater Monmouth’s real estate assets, while the camp facility is centrally located to the communities that rely on its services, it lacks the modern facilities to safely provide the breadth of services needed, especially and including in inclement weather.

          The funds secured by Smith will allow the YMCA to install a commercial grade generator to ensure safe operations in the event of severe weather and power outages, as well as construct and repair buildings on-site to have space for campers to cool off from the heat and take shelter during severe weather. Ensuring adequate safe shelter for campers will double the number of families that can be served through the enriching summer camp programs.

          Smith said the camp facility is also home to year-round mental health counseling conducted by licensed professionals, as well as a substance abuse Intensive Outpatient Program that addresses addiction issues by helping individuals explore the factors contributing to their illness and identifying all the measures necessary to sustain recovery, once it is achieved.

          “By having accessible and affordable mental health professionals at their local YMCA, barriers will be removed for children and families to seek the support they need,” said Smith.

###