Milwaukee Northside YMCA reopens with limited programs for community, members

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The YMCA on Milwaukee’s north side reopened on Monday, March 1 after shutting down last year due to the pandemic.

A little movement in the morning.

It’s something Mae Liddell and her friends here have missed here at Milwaukee’s Northside YMCA.

“I feel good. I’m glad the Y is back here," said Liddell.

Nearly one year ago, the coronavirus pandemic forced a closure.

And then, last summer it opened as an emergency relief site for families.

Now, after months of planning, this Y is back open.

“Ultimately we wanted to respond to the community’s needs. We had many opportunities to meet with members of the community and our member base to understand how we can best support them," said Darryl Anderson, executive director of the Northside YMCA.

Select programs are being offered – including basketball and group exercise.

And regulars of the Silver Sneakers group were ready to return.

“I really miss it. It’s lonely because at home, there is nothing too much you can do. After you get through cleaning – from room to room – there’s nothing else to do," said Liddell.

The YMCA requires masks, temperature checks and scanning in.

They also have capacity limits.

“We are extremely grateful and happy that our members have stuck with us during this very difficult time," said Anderson.

The Northside Y currently shares space with Milwaukee College Prep.

Right now, staff and board members are looking for a new, long-term home.

In the meantime, activities will continue in this space.

“We miss each other so much and this is the best thing happening of us getting together for this part," Milwaukee resident Joe Decou said.

For more information on the Northside Y reopening, click here.