Randolph YMCA providing a warm shower to hundreds in Sandy's wake

RANDOLPH TWP. -- Whether you're a member or not, the Randolph YMCA on Dover Chester Road has been a valued respite from the after affects of the monster storm this weekend.

"We have been pretty busy. We have seen a constant stream of people coming in, most of whom just want to take a nice, hot shower," said Front Desk Supervisor Alyssa Catalano Sunday afternoon.

"We haven't taken an actual count, but there have been a lot of people here over the past few days," she said.

The YMCA lost its power Sunday night, and remained closed Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. By early Thursday morning, however, they were open for business, and quickly invited members of the community to stop by, take a shower, have a swim, recharge computers, cell phones and Ipads and just enjoy a general respite from the storm. Many homes in Randolph are still without power, while many main roadways remain closed due to downed trees and power lines.

"We had the hot tubs available and the steam rooms. People wanted warm, hot water, and we have that," she said.

"People are tired. They come in looking for a nice shower. We're asking people just to sign in, and they we're directing them all to a shower, and the locker room," Catalano said.

"We've had families coming in all day long, and today has been pretty steady. I would guess we've had 20 to 30 today. Our 1 to 5 p.m shift is not usually busy, but it has been today. We offered special extended hours tonight from 6 to 8 p.m. for showers. People can hang out, and recharge cell phones and computers. They are welcome to come in and use our facilities. From 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday was also very busy. A lot of people are coming in for showers," she said. "We must have had 75 last night, and we've had more than 20 so far today in two hours," she said.

For more information, the YMCA can be reached at (973) 366-1120.