Program Requests Fee Waiver To Use Yara Centre
The demise of the Moose Jaw YMCA had the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) attending Council to request a fee waiver at the Yara Centre to continue a program previously ran at the YMCA.
But despite the good intentions and documented positive impact the program had for those suffering from serious mental illness the end result was a no from Council.
The Wellness Metabolic Exercise Program was an exercise and education program held twice weekly at the YMCA . Participants had free access and the program was supported through the YMCA's Opportunity Fund.
The SHA was at Council requesting free access to the fitness facilities as well as the turf area Tuesdays from 1:30-3:00 pm and Thursdays from 10:30-11:30 am. Additionally they are requesting free memberships for their approximate 15 participants.
Speaking on behalf of the program Megan Welwood said the program started with a nine week psychological education pilot project after research showed those with long term mental illness experienced barriers. The barriers they struggled with included a lack of time, energy, motivation, poverty and stigma.
As part of that 2016 pilot project an exercise component was identified as missing and the partnership with the YMCA developed.
During discussion Councillor Chris Warren saud “mental health is an important thing for personal well-being in our community.”
Councillor Warren asked if the group had reached out to the provincial government or organization for funding?
When he was told the group had not he asked if they had spoken to other fitness facilities in the city.
“Yes we have to no avail,” Welwood responded.
Councillor Warren asked Administration if the group did not qualify for funding under the lottery funding programs the City administers. Through the Parks and Recreation Department the City awards grants to provincial lottery money to cultural and recreational groups who qualify.
Scott Osmachenko, recreation services manager said it was just the start and the group could potentially “partner with a non-profit and participate.”
Councillor Warren said he had done some research on the YMCA use of the Opportunity Fund noting it was raised by fundraising and donations and was used by a wide variety of groups.
“I would be a little bit concerned if we were to approve this and more groups funded by the Y came forward “ he said, adding “I would be a little bit concerned.”
Mayor Fraser Tolmie said the City was presently reviewing the organizations they are helping in the community and some of the grants created opportunities for funding.
“I woukd like to have this included in our budget deliberations in what the community needs.”
Councillor Brian Swanson said the $14,000 needed for the 30 annual memberships was too much and it was important for the Province to step up.
“I just don't agree with us providing those free memberships,” Councillor Swanson stated.
In a letter the SHA said the program was designed to address increased rates of metabolic syndrome in recovery clients with serious mental illness.
Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions which when occuring together increases the risk of heart disease, stroke and Type 2 diabetes.
The program has so far had 52 referrals with 28 completing the program while others have been unable to due to not being cleared by their medical doctor to participate, Welwood told Council.
Presently adult membership costs for the Yara Centre are $50.75 monthly. $126.88 for three months or $406 annually. An adult membership to all facilities managed by the Parks and Recreation Department (Yara Centre, Kinsmen Sportsplex Pool & Arena, Phyllis Dewar Outdoor Pool and Pla-Mor Palace) is $55.75 monthly, $134.38 for three months or $446 annually.
The report stated the cost for the 15 participants is $761.25 per month.