The YMCA of Metuchen, Edison, Woodbridge and South Amboy (MEWSA) will offer a 25 percent membership discount for Hidden Heroes caregivers of veterans and service members.
The benefit is offered in conjunction with the Elizabeth Dole Foundation’s Hidden Heroes Campaign, a national initiative that began last fall to raise awareness and support for the 5.5 million spouses, parents, siblings, and other loved ones caring for the nation’s wounded, ill or injured service members and veterans at home, according to information provided by the YMCA.
Edison initially joined the cause, declaring the township a “Hidden Heroes City” in January, with the goal of raising public awareness and inspiring people, businesses and civic groups to join in the support of these caregivers.
Edison is the first township in Middlesex County and the second in New Jersey to do so.
“The YMCA is honored to do our part in this worthy cause,” said Rose Cushing, president and CEO of the YMCA of MEWSA. “We plan to not only open our doors to our Hidden Heroes at the Edison YMCA, but at our Metuchen and South Amboy branches as well.”
The YMCA also offers a discount for veterans and members of the military through their Military Outreach Program.
“There are over 3,000 veterans and over 700 disabled veterans in the Township of Edison,” said Cindy O’Neill, director of operations at the Edison YMCA. “Given that one of the tenets of the YMCA is social responsibility, this gives the YMCA the opportunity to give back to these brave men and women, as well as their caregivers”.
For more information on the YMCA Military Outreach Program, visit www.ymca.net/military-outreach/memberships.html.
For more information about the Hidden Heroes campaign, visit www.hiddenheroes.org.
To check eligibility for either program, contact Kristine Rosko at the Edison YMCA at 732-494-3232, ext. 3512.