Butler Youth Center Has Needs

Starting September 2 on Tuesday and Thursday after school, the chatter and energy of 75-80 kids will fill the Butler Youth Center at the old high school. This many children creates a need for basic supplies that is difficult to keep up with. Kelly Stark, manager of the Youth Center, says that the Center begins each year with the basics needed to operate. “But that many kids quickly deplete the supplies that we have on hand,” adds Stark.” “Just think what basic supplies you need for a family of 5 and then multiply that by 15!”      

The Center, which operates totally on free will donations, needs the help of the community and businesses.  “While there is a constant need for financial donations to help pay our staff, there are many other ways you can help,” says Stark.  

Meals at the center are currently sponsored by Sonic, Casey’s, McDonalds, the Lutheran Church ladies and Cheryl Stevens. There are still three nights a months that could use a sponsor.  If your organization, business or even an individual is interested, contact Mrs. Stark.

The Center has some specific needs that include: 

Paper products such as paper plates, napkins, paper towels, toilet paper and plastic silverware. We go through over 200 plates, napkins and silverware items a week!

The center does not need cups.

Kitchen Supplies including aluminum foil, gallon and quart ziplock bags, storage containers.

Cleaning supplies including dish soap, hand soap, hand sanitizer, sponges, dish cloths, towels and trash bags.

Arts and Crafts Supplies. The major needs are construction paper, art paper, card stock, water color paper, water colors, acrylic paints(in bottles), markers,  paint brushes, Elmer’s glue and scotch tape. In addition, we could use foam art shapes and sheets. Art beads and jewelry making supplies are very popular with the children and they are also very expensive. Stark noted, “A great donation is inexpensive costume jewelry that has beads. We cut the strings and put those in containers for the kids to make their own jewelry.”  Polymer clays, stickers, foam trays, adhesive magnets, and many other craft items are also great.  Sidewalk chalk is also great fun on sunny days.

Game supplies.  Board games, kick balls, plastic bats and balls, basketballs, Nerf footballs, soccer balls, hula hoops, small balls you can hold in your hand. We could also use working electronic games. Currently we have a working Nintendo 64, a Game Cube, and a Play Station.(All older models). Donated games must be rated for general public or youth. 

Food for the Center.  Fresh fruits and vegetables, cookies, crackers, peanut butter crackers, peanut butter, cheese, canned cream of chicken and chicken noodle soup, microwave popcorn and chips are always needed.

Donations for the Center can be dropped off at the Center on Tuesdays from 3:00-5:30 p.m. and Thursdays from 1:30 -5:00 p.m. The Center is located in the Old Butler High Building on East Pine Street. In addition to these needs, donations are always appreciated. These can be mailed to BCYAC, Inc.  P.O Box #466, Butler, MO 64730. BCYAC, Inc. is a 5013c, not-for-profit organization and financial donations are tax deductible.