Once again Bates County businesses and citizens have proven their generosity by providing funds to purchase season pool passes for area children. “We were so excited to be able to buy 67 passes this year, “said Kris Jenkins, BCYAC president. “It is a tough financial year for everyone and we just didn’t know how the donations would turn out.”
BCYAC, Inc. runs a program called “Pool Pals” which links donors with kids. According to Jenkins, “The donor gives money for our 501c3 foundation and we, in turn, buy passes for children on a list provided to us by the school and other groups that work with at-risk youth. “
BCYAC, Inc. depends on free will donations to fund their program which include the Butler Youth Center, a summer day camp as well as the swim program. “We have been blessed with a community that believes in giving opportunities to all their children and they have supported us with generosity over the years,” added Jenkins. “The City of Butler is a great partner in our program and have made every effort to work with us and support our efforts.”
This year’s children range in age from 6-16; some have economic hardship, some social needs, others have physical or health reasons that put them on the list, while other children have had tragedies or traumatic events recently. “The program aims to help kids have fun in the summer, but even more important is the socialization at the pool and the health benefits of swimming every day.” Last year’s survey of Pool Pals’ parents found that over 65 % of the families had one or more parent working but there just wasn’t enough money to buy a pass.
“Thanks again to all who donated and supported this program,” said Jenkins. “You did a very good thing.”
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