Partner Spotlight: Central YMCA Mission Market

March 17, 2025

Providing food for 1 in 8 Delawareans takes more than just the Food Bank of Delaware. It requires a strong network of organizations committed to lending a helping hand. Last year through partnerships across the state, we were able to provide more than 19.5 million meals to our neighbors in need.

One of those partners is the Central YMCA Mission Market.

When most people think of the YMCA, they picture a place for fitness—swimming pools, basketball courts, and group exercise classes. While that’s certainly a part of what the Central YMCA in downtown Wilmington offers, it is far from the whole story. The Central YMCA is more than just a gym; it’s a pillar of the community, providing essential resources and support to those in need.

The YMCA Mission Market at the Central YMCA is a free store, open to community members, that aims to combat hunger and provide for those in need. The Market features shelf-stable and perishable food, clothes, and more. Donations are provided by local community members and partners, including the Food Bank of Delaware.

Jimia Redden serves as the Community Executive Director of Housing and says it’s important for the YMCA to stock the shelves with foods that families like. “We want them to eat, just like we eat. We are big on making sure we have the items our families will want to eat,” she explained.

The Community Market helps break down barriers to food access, ensuring that families don’t have to choose between paying for rent or putting a meal on the table.

Malinda Leonard serves at the Central YMCA Food Program Coordinator staffs and ensures that each visitor is treated with respect and dignity. Just last month, 97 families visited the market, she said. Families may visit twice a month if needed, and The Market relies on community referrals and word of mouth. Referral partners include St. Francis Day Center, Wilmington Housing Authority, Bancroft School, Christiana Care and others.

“It’s been a blessing to have people come here and know that they don’t have to be ashamed,” she said. “We all need help sometimes and the Mission Market gives that without judgment.”

The Market is open:

Beyond addressing food insecurity, the Central YMCA also provides affordable permanent supportive housing for men in need. The Y operates a residential program, offering a safe and stable place to live for men who are experiencing homelessness or other challenges. With access to supportive services, employment assistance, and a community that cares, the shelter program helps individuals regain stability and work toward self-sufficiency.

The men’s shelter is located on several floors within the Central YMCA. 180 resident rooms feature a bed, dresser, desk and mini refrigerator. Microwaves, washers and dryers and restroom facilities are shared by floormates.

Because rooms do not feature an oven, the Y offers crockpot classes thanks to a grant from Christiana Care. The weekly class is a big hit says Jimia. Using items commonly found in the Mission Market, the men participate in a series of classes to learn about healthy eating. After the third class, they are able to keep their crockpot to make meals right in their room.

The Central YMCA Mission Market is a true testament to the power of community partnerships in the fight against hunger and hardship. By providing food, clothing, and support, along with essential housing services, the Y is more than just a place to work out—it’s a place where neighbors lift each other up.

To learn more about the Central YMCA Delaware’s Mission Market, click here.