The New Castle Community YMCA in Pennsylvania has received a $1 million challenge grant from the May Emma Hoyt Foundation, the New Castle News reports.

The lead grant in a new capital campaign was awarded in support of renovations to the organization's nearly sixty-year-old facility in downtown New Castle. According to the News, project goals include renovation of the boys', girls', mens', and women's locker rooms and the addition of three family locker rooms; expansion of the youth center and construction of a new drop-in child-watch center; new exterior windows and an elevator; and the purchase of new equipment.

The public phase of the Strengthening the Heart of Our Community campaign, which will open in January and run for six months, seeks to raise $2 million of the $2.4 million needed for the improvements. The Newcastle Y has been open to all community members, regardless of background, since 1868 and today extends financial assistance to more than 1,900 of its 6,200 members.

"The Hoyt Foundation's commitment and generosity to this community and our local YMCA is truly incredible," said YMCA board president Jay Bruce. "The pledge they have made will help Lawrence County youth, families, and community members for years to come."