ROCKPORT – The Penobscot Bay YMCA, which is committed to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility in Knox County, is among those selected as 2019 United Midcoast Charities (UMC) grant recipients.

The Penobscot Bay YMCA will use the 2019 UMC grant to address economic security and access to childcare and summer camp for Knox County and Lincolnville families.

“The Y maintains, proudly, its licensed, qualified, highly structured childcare and camp programs, and is considered widely to be an expert provider of such care to families in its community,” said the Y, in a news release.

“We are grateful for UMC’s generous support to help us ease the burden for Knox County families attempting to maintain employment while knowing their child is in a safe and positive environment where their child can learn, grow and thrive,” said Penobscot Bay YMCA President and CEO Melissa Bellew. “UMC has provided us the opportunity to meet the needs of individual and families in our community for over 75 years.”

UMC’s open, competitive annual grants process supports nonprofit agencies in Knox and Waldo counties working in the areas of food, housing, health and safety and economic security.

Every dollar donated to UMC is applied to its grant program, which, during the last three years alone has provided more than $1.5 million to recipients in Knox and Waldo counties, according to the release. In addition to providing grants, UMC offers educational programs and other learning resources for all local nonprofits, including those who do not receive funding.

The Penobscot Bay YMCA is a cornerstone of the healthy community, fostering partnerships, providing programs and services and promoting youth development, healthy living and social responsibility to improve the quality of life for everyone, according to the Y. Its vision is to be a recognized community leader, connecting individuals and families with high-quality health, recreational and social service opportunities.