Metro Chicago YMCAs Require Vaccines For Youth, Day Programs

Clarification: Patch has updated the headline to reflect that the vaccine requirement applies only to Metro Chicago YMCA locations.

CHICAGO AREA, IL — Starting in March, parents of children over 5 years old will be required to show proof their child received a COVID-19 vaccine before they can enroll them in on-site YMCA youth programs at Metro Chicago locations.

The new requirement takes effect on March 14. Proof of vaccination will be required for those wishing to enroll in all on-site activities, including youth programs, day and overnight camps and special activities.

The Y’s off-site programs will continue to follow the policies and practices of the partner organization or venue, according to a news release.

"COVID has impacted each of our lives in some way, and we ask that you join us as we each do our part to support each other in keeping our communities safe," according to a Jan. 31 statement from the YMCA of Metro Chicago. " We understand this might take some time to get used to. But our space is safer now, and we can’t wait to see you at the Y."

This past week, YMCAs across the Chicago area began requiring all members and guests over the age of 5 to show proof of vaccination in order to use their membership or enter YMCA locations.

The COVID-19 vaccine has not yet received government approval for children under the age of 5.