Memberships for Foster Youth & Families
Through free and discounted memberships, the Y helps youth in foster care and foster parents build healthy routines, confidence, and community.
Free Youth Membership
Youth in foster care living in King County are eligible for a free individual membership.
- Includes a 50% program scholarship for activities like swim lessons, sports leagues, and more
- Proof of foster care status required at registration
- Must reside in King County
Free Family Membership
Foster parents licensed with the YMCA of Greater Seattle are eligible for a free family membership.
- Includes a 50% program scholarship for eligible programs
- Eligibility letter from a Y case manager required at registration
25% Discounted Family Membership
Foster parents licensed with other King County agencies receive 25% off a family membership.
- Includes a 50% program scholarship
- Proof of foster care license required at registration
- Must reside in King County
- Youth in extended care may provide a Ward of the Court letter in place of a license
How to Redeem Memberships
Offers must be redeemed in person at one of our 13 YMCA of Greater Seattle locations. Discounts are not available online or at neighboring YMCA associations.
The Y's Community of Fostering offers outstanding support for foster kids and parents.
We believe that the best way to make foster care a healing and supportive community for kids is to offer each child and foster family the individualized support they need to thrive and succeed.
The Y has been licensing foster homes since 1987. In those years, we’ve learned and developed the best ways to build our community and support our families. We know the key to success is treating foster parents as professionals and the most important members of the child’s support team.
Benefits of Fostering with the Y
Ease of Access
The YMCA does not charge any fees for licensing and home studies. We support you throughout the licensing process and are available to answer any questions and provide individualized assistance.
Free YMCA Family Membership
Your membership gives your whole family access to free and discounted programs for children and families, including facilities with water parks, high tech game rooms, rock climbing, and much more at over 13 YMCA of Greater Seattle branches across King County. Membership rates for kids’ activities and Parent’s Night Out allow you to work out or spend some quality time with other adults. For caregivers located in Pierce and Snohomish counties, your YMCA of Greater Seattle membership allows easy access to more than 2,600 Ys throughout the United States using a benefit called Nationwide Membership. Please contact the local Y you plan to visit to ensure they're accepting Nationwide Membership at this time. Member discounts for programs and Kids Zone participation are only available within the Greater Seattle branches.
Self-Care
Foster parents providing full-time care accrue respite. Taking a few hours, days or even weeks of respite gives foster parents an opportunity to rest & recuperate, as well as to ensure they are staying healthy in mind, body, and spirit.