The YMCA of Greater Charlotte announced this evening that it will temporarily close its 19 branches and two overnight camps due to the coronavirus pandemic. The closures will begin at close of business for each facility on Tuesday, March 17.

Last week, the organization announced all youth programming would be temporarily suspended. As the crisis continued to grow over the weekend with increased urgency from local, state and federal officials, Y officials met today to make the decision to temporarily close for the safety of its members, staff, and the community as a whole.

“These are uncertain times. It’s hard to imagine more difficult circumstances for operating our YMCA,” said Todd Tibbits, president and CEO of YMCA of Greater Charlotte. “We are a community organization. We bring people together – from all backgrounds and circumstances – and create personal connections that change lives through membership and programs.”

The YMCA of Greater Charlotte hopes to resume normal operations as soon as safely possible.

To help members stay active during this time, the Y has launched online classes via Y360. Y members are also able to stream MOSSA classes for free over the next 60 days. These virtual classes have been made available to Y members at no cost during this crisis so they can stay healthy and active at home.

Although facilities will be open tomorrow, group exercise classes, basketball and open gym will not be available. Members should monitor www.ymcacharlotte.org/maintaining-healthy-environment for updates.

The Y’s Howard Levine Child Development Center remains open for the time being, and will take direction from State of North Carolina officials on operational decisions.