On a recent Thursday, the hum of chatter and laughter filled the cafeteria at the Dorchester YMCA as about two dozen 7- and 8-year-olds filed in for a late afternoon snack.
Small hands reached for soap and sanitizer at the sinks before settling at long, rectangular tables, where bananas, low-fat milk, and neatly wrapped vegetarian sandwiches awaited them. The kids eagerly tore into their snacks, sharing stories about their day as they swung their legs beneath their chairs.
For some of these children, this isn’t just an afterschool snack—it’s one of the few times in the day they can rely on a healthy meal. Through a collaboration between the American Heart Association and the YMCA of Greater Boston, these programs are now better equipped to provide nutritious food to children in need.
With funding provided by the American Heart Association, the YMCA recently purchased industrial-sized refrigerators for their locations in Dorchester, Roxbury, Hyde Park and Oak Square. These refrigerators allow the Y to safely store fresh fruits, vegetables, and balanced meals, serving nearly 400 children across the four locations. During the summer months, when the YMCA runs full-day programs, that number grows even higher.
“These refrigerators are critical for keeping food fresh and safe, ensuring the children we serve receive nutritious meals every day,” said Eilisha Manandhar, senior director of hunger prevention for the YMCA of Greater Boston.
The YMCA’s afterschool programs, which serve children from Boston public schools, charter schools, and private schools, provide more than just a place to spend the afternoon. Between 2-6 p.m., kids engage in a variety of activities, from physical fitness and STEM projects to arts and crafts and quiet reading time. At the center of these activities is the Y’s commitment to social and emotional learning, helping children build positive relationships and learn essential life skills.
For many families, these programs also serve as a vital lifeline.
“In some cases, the meals kids get at the Y may be the only nutritious food they eat that day,” said Ana Montes Diaz, the Y’s senior director for youth development and summer learning. “We see this as an opportunity to support not only the kids but also their families, so they have one less thing to worry about.”
The meals offered through the program are carefully planned to meet federal nutrition standards. Each meal includes a grain, protein, fruit, vegetable and milk. Recent menus have included chicken and rice bowls, pasta marinara, quesadillas, and vegetarian options, ensuring a variety of flavors for children with different preferences.
“Nutrition is fundamental to children’s health and ability to focus,” said Manandhar. “The refrigerators allow us to store food safely and consistently deliver balanced meals.”
The collaboration between the YMCA and the American Heart Association, which was supported by a financial gift to the Association from local philanthropist Patricia Salic, began through a shared commitment to addressing food insecurity and promoting healthier lifestyles. The YMCA serves communities where food insecurity rates are higher than other parts of the state, such as Dorchester and Roxbury. By funding the purchase of refrigerators, the American Heart Association has helped the Y expand its ability to serve these neighborhoods.
“This project is a direct reflection of our mission to improve the health of all communities,” said Stephanie Voltaire, community impact director for the American Heart Association in Greater Boston. “We know that access to healthy food is a cornerstone of good health. By working with the YMCA, we’re helping to ensure children and families in these neighborhoods have the nutritious meals they need to thrive.”
The refrigerators are not only used for afterschool programs but also support the Y’s early education programs, summer camps and weekend community events.
“When we’re in summer camp mode, we’ll fill that fridge every day,” said Montes Diaz. “Sometimes, we’re feeding 200 kids daily, and having reliable equipment is essential.”
For the children, mealtime at the Y is about more than just food. It’s a time to connect with peers and adults in a supportive environment. YMCA staff often eat alongside the kids, modeling healthy eating habits and building trust.
“We encourage socialization during meals because it’s an important skill,” Montes Diaz said.
This initiative is just one example of how the American Heart Association works with local organizations in Greater Boston to address critical community needs.
“When organizations come together, we have the power to make a meaningful impact on the health and well-being of children and their families,” said Voltaire.