Bonacic Secures $500,000 For Ymca
State Senator John J. Bonacic (R/I/C - Mount Hope) announced today that he has secured $500,000 in State Capital funding to assist in the creation of a YMCA Sullivan County branch. The YMCA has also received a commitment of 12 acres from RH Land Development, LLC where the facility will be located. Residents and local developers have also pledged additional financial support.
"The YMCA is a worthwhile organization that provides countless opportunities for children and families in our communities," stated Senator Bonacic. "I am pleased to work to secure State aid that will benefit all in Sullivan County."
"We applaud Senator Bonacic for working tirelessly in support of youth and families in Sullivan County," explained Randy Grant, Executive Director of the YMCA. The YMCA currently is offering youth, adult and family programs at Monticello High School. The YMCA and the Town of Thompson have now partnered and are conducting a 7-week day camp for Town residents. The day camp has a full enrollment of 200 boys and girls. Currently there are 1,740 members participating in Sullivan County programs of which 1,534 are under the age of 18.
"The YMCA is the largest provider of child care in the country," added Grant, "and programs like camping, sports, water safety, wellness, teen and senior programs are programs intended to raise the quality of life for all." The YMCA also offers leadership programs such as Youth in Government and Earth Services.
Jim Tarpey, Board President for the Middletown YMCA stated, "We are extremely encouraged by the support we are receiving to expand much needed services into Sullivan County. A strong community YMCA is part of the fabric of a healthy community and YMCA efforts will build Strong Kids, Strong Families and Strong Communities. The YMCA not only will help support the existing needs present in Sullivan County but encourage further economic development and support that growth," concluded Tarpey.
The YMCA in Middletown began offering programs in 1883 and today serves over 8,000 members and offers child care in 18 elementary schools in Orange County.
Linda Cellini, YMCA Development Director remarked, "This is a project that started over twenty years ago when I was asked by the late Walter Rhulen to join a committee to bring a YMCA to Sullivan County." Linda further stated, "I am pleased and excited to see the support and continued progress as we move forward to bring this dream to reality. We cannot thank Senator Bonacic enough for bringing this dream closer to reality."
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