The Grist-Brown Memorial YMCA have voted to extend the 68 laid-off city of Selma employees free access to the YMCA through the end of January.

The Grist-Brown Memorial YMCA is partnering with Gospel Tabernacle Church for the generous donation to the employees, who have been laid off since Nov. 5.

Grist-Brown Memorial YMCA CEO Leonard Speed said the organization was willing to assist the community.

“I think during this challenging time, those laid-off workers need a place to work out and take care of their health,” Speed said. “It can be a good thing until them get back on their feet.”

Juanda Maxwell, Grist-Brown YMCA Chief Volunteer Officer, said she appreciates Gospel Tabernacle and its Pastor, Rev. John D. Grayson for joining their cause.

“We are so grateful at the YMCA to partner with Gospel Tabernacle and being able to help those displaced,” Maxwell said. “The YMCA’s heart goes out to our city employees who just need a break. Our heartfelt prayers are the with people and the community. When they hurt, we hurt.”

Grayson said Gospel Tabernacle was glad to help the Grist-Brown YMCA. Gospel Tabernacle has been giving free groceries to laid-off workers for the last month.

“It’s a people helping people thing,” Grayson said. “The city of Selma has always been great helping people out.”