On a bright Tuesday morning, laughter and music filled the air as a group of women moved in unison following the instructor at the front of the room. These women are participating in Healthy Hustle, a trauma-informed physical activity program run by YWCA Crabtree Corner. This popular drop-in program has been going strong for about a decade and offers a variety of fitness classes.
“This program has changed my life,” said Darlene, who started coming to the classes about a year ago. “I have improved my self-esteem by connecting with the community. We need more programs like this—it’s impacted me hugely.”
Many of the program participants are new moms who are solo parenting with limited resources. Childminding is provided along with light snacks, bus tickets and the equipment needed to participate in the activity. It’s one of the many programs offered at Crabtree Corner, supporting women and their families on Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside.
“This program has given me self-confidence, ‘me time’ as a mom and I’ve met wonderful people,” said Patti. She enjoys the cardio dance and aquafit classes but emphasizes that the approach taken by the organizers, creating an understanding and welcoming environment, matters just as much. “They meet your needs and where you’re at. If you’re not comfortable with doing something, then you don’t have to do it.”
Darlene loves yoga, swimming and dance classes in particular. “You have to pay attention to the dance moves and really focus on what you’re doing. You are getting out of your head and focusing on this class,” she said.
For more information on how to support Crabtree Corner’s wide range of programs and services, contact Josh Hardwick at jhardwick@ywcavan.org or 604 895 5823.
