PORT TOWNSEND — The Jefferson County YMCA has received a $15,000 supplemental grant for two after-school programs at Port Townsend and Chimacum schools.
The money from United Good Neighbors of Jefferson County will go toward Building Futures and After the Bell.
Building Futures is a program that pairs at-risk middle school students with adult and high school mentors who can provide one-on-one attention and support.
After the Bell is an after-school program that facilitates activities including homework assistance, theater arts, and fitness.
“Our local YMCA faces a difficult funding situation this year,” said Carla Caldwell, UGN executive director.
“The city was its major funding source for the past several years but was unable to provide support this year,” she added.
“We do not want to risk cancellation of safety net programs for young people in the community.”
During the last funding cycle, UGN had allocated a total of $21,500 for the two programs to be used in 2013.
“The additional grant will protect that investment and help to ensure that these vital youth programs can thrive through the remainder of 2013,” Caldwell said.
The grant is dependent upon the YMCA board’s ability to procure funding commitments from other sources to fill any additional funding gap for the two programs.
UGN is a nonprofit organization that helps raise awareness and provide funding for social services in the community.
For more information on YMCA programs or to make a donation, phone 360-385-5811.
