NEWS & UPDATES
the Foxboro Y


All that’s happening at the Foxboro Y.

Posted on: Tuesday, January 20th, 2026

YMCA / Dean College Scholarship

The Hockomock Area YMCA is proud to partner with Dean College to offer a $41,500 scholarship to a deserving young person who has been actively involved with the Hockomock Area YMCA.

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • currently enrolled as a high school senior in good standing
  • be a Hockomock Area YMCA member or an active volunteer
  • minimum high school GPA of 2.5
  • meet the admission requirements of Dean College for Fall 2026
  • be a US citizen or permanent resident

APPLY TODAY!

Application deadline is Friday, February 27, 2026.

The scholarship is renewable for four years as long as the student remains in good academic standing.

Finalists will be required to meet for an interview with the scholarship selection committee in March.

If you have any questions, please contact our Franklin Y’s Associate Branch Executive Director Jen Doherty at jend@hockymca.org or 508-528-8708.

Posted on: Friday, January 16th, 2026

Join our 100-Mile Challenge

The Challenge will run from January 19 through February 28, 2026 at our Foxboro, Franklin, and North Attleboro branches.

We hope this free fitness challenge will help keep you motivated through the winter months to stay on track to meet your health & wellness goals.

Workout miles can be accrued by any combination of the following types of exercise: swim, walk, run, bike, row, group exercise/water fitness classes, elliptical, arc trainer, lateral X, etc.

  • For the pool, 1/4 mile = 9 laps
  • 1 lap = 2 lengths of the pool
  • A 45-minute water fitness or group exercise class = 3/4 mile

To participate and register, simply fill out the 100-Mile Challenge Chart hanging in your branch after your workout at our Y or after your workout completed elsewhere as soon as you can. Write your name with the dry erase marker provided in the larger block, and fill in the smaller box(es) in your name’s row for every 1/4 mile you complete. If you have any questions, please reach out to any health & wellness staff person.

The top 3 winners at each branch will earn bragging rights and will be announced during the week of March 1st.

Good Luck! And thanks for being a part of our Y!

Posted on: Thursday, January 15th, 2026

Fun with the Bunny Event

Join us for a Spring Family Night!

Celebrate Spring and upcoming holidays with a fun-filled Friday night for the whole family! Kids can meet the Bunny, take photos, enjoy arts & crafts, play games, and finish the night with a Bunny Dance.

Friday, March 27, 2026

The Bunny will be visiting as an annual Hockomock Y tradition. Don’t forget to bring your camera!

EVENT DETAILS:

6:30pm – 8:00pm

6:00pm Option for quieter, sensory friendly early access

Happening at all 3 branches: Foxboro, Franklin and North Attleboro.

Cost: $6 per child for members / $12 per child for non-members. Only children need to register.

Free for Family-type Y members. Online registration not available for complimentary family membership event registrations – please call or visit your branch to register.

REGISTER TODAY

The North Attleboro Branch will have a flashlight egg hunt at 6:45pm and pizza will also be available for purchase.

Bring the whole family for a hoppin’ good time!

Posted on: Thursday, January 15th, 2026

Patriots Pride Rally at our Foxboro Y

JOIN US: FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6 PATRIOTS PRIDE RALLY 4:00pm-6:00pm

Let’s Go Patriots! Join us for a Rally at our Foxboro Y on Friday, February 6th from 4:00pm – 6:00pm.

The rally will focus on youth and people of all ages wishing the New England Patriots well for the Super Bowl. We hope you will join us on Friday!

ACTIVITIES WILL INCLUDE:

  • Football drills and skills in the gym
  • Contests
  • Football crafts
  • and more!

From our youth flag football classes to our cheerleaders bringing the spirit, we’re coming together to cheer on our hometown New England Patriots!

YMCA Members and the community are invited to attend this free event. We also encourage attendees to wear their Patriots gear when coming to the Y on Friday and all week!

Posted on: Thursday, January 1st, 2026

All In, All Together for Community Impact

On Friday, March 6, we’ll gather at Gillette Stadium for our annual fundraising breakfast—a morning of purpose and connection. Our Annual Campaign Breakfast unites neighbors, partners, and friends who believe in strengthening community. When we’re all in, all together, every voice and every gift helps create real, lasting impact at our YMCA.

Event Details

  • Date: Friday, March 6, 2026
  • Networking: 7:00 a.m. | Breakfast & Program: 7:30 a.m.
  • Location: Gillette Stadium, Foxboro, MA (Cross Insurance Club)

Donate Now

Can’t attend? You can still make a difference—give today.

Posted on: Thursday, November 20th, 2025

Swim Lessons at the Y

Have Fun, Be Confident, Stay Safe

Each year, the Y teaches more than a million children how to swim. Y Swim Lessons are available year round and provide resources for all kids. Sign up for swim lessons today! We foster a sense of achievement as swimmers progress between levels in our pools. Through this approach, advanced swimmers flow more easily to higher levels while swimmers who need more instruction can learn at their own pace. This results in more confident swimmers who stick with lessons and develop a love for swimming that can last a lifetime.

There are three categories of Y Swim Lessons:

1) SWIM STARTERS (PARENT OR GUARDIAN WITH CHILD)

Accompanied by a parent, infants and toddlers learn to be comfortable in the water and develop swim readiness skills. Parents are coached to guide their child toward greater water independence while learning about the importance of supervision. Swim Starters classes are suggested for ages 6 months through 4 years as follows:

2) SWIM BASICS

Students develop basic swimming competency and learn personal water safety. They begin by developing comfort in the water, then work on proper body position and control. While developing fundamental techniques, swimmers increase stamina for longer distance swimming. Students or their parents can sign up for a time slot in which a number of different stages are taught and instructors will look for your child to comfortably and consistently perform each skill in order to progress to the next stage.

3) SWIM STROKES

Having mastered the fundamentals, swimmers build on stroke technique, including all major competitive strokes. The emphasis on water safety continues, and swimmers learn about competitive swimming and how to incorporate exercise swimming into a healthy lifestyle.

  • Swim Strokes classes are available for (ages 5-12) and instructors will look for your child to comfortably and consistently perform each skill in order to progress to the next stage.
  • Click here to see the days and times for the current session of Swim Strokes.

Each Swim Lessons category has three stages or levels that are designed for swimmers’ age and ability. If you have any question about Swim Lessons, or want some help placing your child in the right class, please reach out to our Aquatics Directors or simply call the front desk. Bernon Y Aquatics (Franklin): Krystina Edens at krystinae@hockymca.org -OR- Foxboro Y Aquatics: Chris Tower at christophert@hockymca.org -OR- North Attleboro Y Aquatics: Ken Follette at kenf@hockymca.org

SWIM STARTERS BABY & TODDLER LESSONS WITH PARENT

Parent/Child
6 Months – 3 Years

Accompanied by a parent, infants and toddlers learn to be comfortable in the water and develop swim readiness skills. Parents are coached to guide their child toward greater water independence while learning about the importance of supervision.

A / WATER DISCOVERY

Parents accompany children in stage A, which introduces infants and toddlers to the aquatic environment through exploration and encourages them to enjoy themselves while learning about the water.

B / WATER EXPLORATION

In stage B, parents work with their children to explore body positions, floating, blowing bubbles, and fundamental safety and aquatic skills.

C / WATER INDEPENDENCE

Parents work with their children to develop comfort in underwater exploration by learning self rescue techniques. This class is geared for children not ready to be independent from parents.

SWIM BASICS FUNDAMENTALS OF SWIMMING

Everyone
Ages 3 and up

Students develop basic swimming competency and learn personal water safety. They begin by developing comfort in the water, then work on proper body position and control. While developing fundamental techniques, swimmers increase stamina for longer distance swimming.

1 / WATER ACCLIMATION

Students develop comfort with underwater exploration and learn to safely exit in the event of falling into a body of water. This stage lays the foundation for a student’s future progress in swimming.

2 / WATER MOVEMENT

In stage 2, students focus on body position and control, directional change, and forward movement in the water while also continuing to practice how to safely exit in the event of falling into a body of water.

3 / WATER STAMINA

In stage 3, students learn how to swim to safety from a longer distance than in previous stages in the event of falling into a body of water. This stage also introduces rhythmic breathing and integrated arm and leg action.

SWIM STROKES REFINING STROKE TECHNIQUE

Everyone
Ages 5 and up

Having mastered the fundamentals, swimmers build on stroke technique, including all major competitive strokes. The emphasis on water safety continues, and swimmers learn about competitive swimming and how to incorporate exercise swimming into a healthy lifestyle.

4 / STROKE INTRODUCTION

Students in stage 4 develop stroke technique in front crawl and back crawl and learn the breaststroke kick and butterfly kick. Water safety is reinforced through treading water and elementary backstroke.

5 / STROKE DEVELOPMENT

Students in stage 5 work on stroke technique and learn all major competitive strokes. The emphasis on water safety continues through treading water and sidestroke.

6 / STROKE MECHANICS

In stage 6, students refine stroke technique on all major competitive strokes, learn about competitive swimming, and discover how to incorporate swimming into a healthy lifestyle.

Posted on: Friday, October 31st, 2025

Holiday Happenings This Season

“THE FINAL COUNTDOWN” HOLIDAY INCENTIVE:

  • Pick up a punch card as early as November 27 at one of our Member Service Desks to take part in our “Final Countdown” program.
  • This incentive program is offered to help you stay on track with your fitness over the holiday, from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve.
  • Members who receive 15 hole punches during the 11/27-12/31 time period can place their card into the raffle basket at Member Services for cool prizes.
  • Prizes include Y sweatshirts, tote cooler, water bottles, gift cards and more! See you at the Y!

A HOLIDAY TRADITION – FUN WITH SANTA EVENT:

  • Friday, December 12th 6:30pm – 8:00pm at our branches in Foxboro, Franklin and North Attleboro.
  • The event will have a 6pm soft opening for those who need a quieter sensory experience.
  • Free event for family-type YMCA members, but registration is required by calling the Branch for promo code. Cost for non-family type members is $6 and non-members is $12 and can be purchased in-branch or online. Register today!
  • Festivities include a meet & greet with Santa and photo opportunity, games & crafts and a take home goodie bag.

HOLIDAY CHARACTER LUNCHES & PARENTS NIGHT OUT EVENTS:

  • At the Y, we strive to create a supportive, caring community where family joy & memories are made. We offer a variety of character luncheons throughout the year. Join us for Lunch with Santa at our three branches this December.
  • We also want to help parents & caregivers by creating opportunities for children to enjoy a night at the Y while parents & caregivers can enjoy time together, especially during the holiday season.
  • View all of our offerings, by branch and register today!

GIVING TREE PROGRAM:

  • Help local families in need this holiday season through our 20th annual Giving Tree Program
    How it works:
  • Pick a tag from our Giving Tree.
  • Purchase the gift listed on the tag.
  • Return unwrapped gift with original tag by Sunday, Dec. 7 to the Member Service Desk.
  • Thank you for your support! Giving Trees in our branch lobbies are a powerful example of the generosity and spirit of social responsibility exhibited by our members and staff. Thank you for joining with us to create meaningful moments for YMCA families in need.


From all of us at the YMCA, thank you for being part of our Y family and happy holidays.

Posted on: Wednesday, October 15th, 2025

December Break Programs

When School Is Out, the Fun Is In!

When school is not in session due to the December break, kids and teens are invited to join us at the Y for fun, educational, day programs.

We believe that all kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve! That’s why, through Y day camps, children are cultivating the values, skills and relationships that lead to positive behaviors, better health, and educational achievement.

Our experienced staff takes the right steps to ensure your camper’s safety and happiness during an action-packed day!

School Break Camps: Dec 26 – Jan 2.

  • Before Care 7:00 am—9:00 am available
  • A variety of fun activities available for ages 3 through 14
  • Break Programs 9:00 am—4:00 pm (and some half day programs as well)
  • After Care 4:00 pm—6:00 pm available
  • Note: If participating in a full day program, please bring a lunch, drink, snacks and water bottle. Half day programs, please bring lunch and water bottle.

in North Attleboro

We are pleased to offer a variety and specialized day camp options out of the North Attleboro Y. Choose from Camp Elmwood our traditional summer camp program to specialties like Gymnastics, Sports, and Cooking.

REGISTER TODAY (NORTH ATTLEBORO)

Do you know we have a Teen Center known as “The Zone?” All youth ages 11-17 are welcome! We are open in the afternoons from 2:30pm to 6:00pm on Friday, 12/26, Monday, 12/29, Tuesday, 12/30 and Friday, 1/2 with daily snacks, crafts and game offerings. No cost to attend. The Zone is located at 585 East Washington Street, behind Bagels & Cream. We hope to see you there!

in Foxboro:

We are pleased to offer a variety and specialized day camp options out of the Foxboro Y. Choose from Camp Wapawca our traditional summer camp program (which includes field trips!) to specialties like Cooking and Swim.

REGISTER TODAY (FOXBORO)

in Franklin

We are pleased to offer a variety and specialized day camp options out of the Franklin Y. Choose from Camp Wiggi our traditional summer camp program (which includes field trips!) or our Swim specialty program.

REGISTER TODAY (FRANKLIN)

in Mansfield

Come join us for a very special Winter Theatre Showcase!

REGISTER TODAY (MANSFIELD)

Posted on: Thursday, September 25th, 2025

Men’s Basketball is Back

Whether you’re looking to stay active, meet new people, or relive your glory days on the court, our Men’s Basketball League is the perfect way to get in the game this season.

League Format

  • 3-on-3 half-court refereed games
  • 8-week season: Tuesdays starting November 4
  • Maximum 5 players per team
  • Game times vary between 7:30–9:30 PM

What to Expect

  • Team-based format
  • More court time
  • Playoffs and championship
  • Great sportsmanship and community vibe

REGISTER YOUR TEAM

Team Pricing

  • $200 for members
  • $300 for non-members

Games will be hosted at the Hurley Family Branch YMCA in North Attleboro, MA.. Thank you for helping spread the word!

Stay Connected

Follow us on social media for updates, team standings, and photos from the season. Questions? Contact Sports Director Joshua Porter by emailing joshuap@hockymca.org

Posted on: Monday, September 22nd, 2025

Early Learning Center Off the Foxboro Common

Our newest YMCA Early Learning Center, Off the Foxboro Common

Our Hockomock Area YMCA is thrilled to operate our newest child care program at the location of the Bethany Congregational Church, off the Foxboro Common, located at 3 Rockhill Street in Foxboro! The Center opened in September 2023.

The Hockomock Area YMCA brings together more than 1,200 families in our three Early Learning Centers at our branch facilities, enabling parents and family members to go to work knowing their children are in safe, stimulating environments. Our centers are fully licensed by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Early Education and are NAEYC accredited. Our commitment to strengthening the foundations of community means being there for children and families.

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Highlights of our new Early Learning Center Off the Foxboro Common include:

  • Five bright and inviting classrooms for Toddlers (ages 18 months+) and Preschool and Pre-K Children (ages 3-5 years) to grow and thrive.
  • Flexible scheduling options including 2, 3, 4 and 5 days a week care for working parents. We are open weekdays from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
  • Intensive screening & training of caring, licensed staff.
  • A curriculum combining learning through play in an engaging, fun environment.
  • Outdoor playground for each child’s physical and social development with peers.
  • With a commitment to healthy living, all of our child care programs teach children the importance of healthy minds and bodies. We provide a healthy morning and afternoon snack, including a fruit or vegetable as well as milk. A snack calendar is sent home monthly with the newsletter.
  • For more information or to schedule a tour, email our Association Director of Child Care Services at kristinm@hockymca.org.

For More Information and Registration:

Please email Kristin at kristinm@hockymca.org.

Our mission is to enhance the quality of life of our members and the community, offering programs and services to all regardless of ability to pay. Part of that mission is a financial assistance program to those who need support and for those who qualify. Learn more