Family Resources

YMCA of Greater Erie embraces a positive approach to behavioral strains by applying research-informed and evidence-based practices known as Conscious Discipline® and offers in-house behavior consultation for educators.  Conscious Discipline® takes a unique approach to classroom management and provides solutions for social and emotional learning and self-regulation. The program is intended to help adults regulate themselves enough to support children who are also learning how to regulate. Conscious Discipline® is trauma-informed and based on brain research and evidence and its tactics focus on the adult first, and the child second.

United Way 2-1-1: To find connection to community services such as help with diapers, food, transportation and more, dial 2-1-1 on your phone. The United Way’s 2-1-1 is a centralized call center that has information on a variety of community organizations and programs to support families.

COMPASS: COMPASS is an online tool for Pennsylvanians to apply for many health and human service programs and manage benefit information.

Multicultural Community Resource Center:  MCRC provides a variety of educational, social service, child development, housing and employment programs to the Latino, Refugee, Immigrant and New American populations in Erie in a client first and focused manner.

Thrive Clearing House for Military Family Readiness: Parenting resources to address the long-term well-being of military and civilian children.

Kindergarten Registration: If you have a 5 (or soon to be) year old, please be sure to contact your district today for details and the latest information you will need to make sure your child is ready to start kindergarten!

Free Meals for Kids – Use this map to locate Erie County nonprofits and school serving free meals for kids.

Free Parks & Recreation Program for Kids–   Four City of Erie parks offer free recreation, lunch and snack for kids in the summer

Free Learn to Swim Program for Kids–   Free swimming lessons offered to City of Erie kids in the summer

Finding Your Way in PA– A  Pennsylvania based mobile and desktop app designed to share services, resources, and information with young people and families, particularly those experiencing homelessness. While using the app, users can search for and request assistance with services and resources in their current location, local communities, and throughout PA to connect them with helpful supports. Download the app in the app store. Search “Finding your Way in PA”.

Enjoy live or on-demand group exercise classes with your favorite instructors, explore nutrition classes, youth enrichment, fitness options and more. YMCA360 is accessed through the YMCA of Greater Erie app, ymca360.org, and Smart TV apps Roku and Apple TV. Free for Y members.

Get Started with Y360