PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — Boys & Girls Clubs of Border Towns, based in Presque Isle, Houlton and Perry, have begun a fundraising campaign aimed at supporting COVID-19 relief efforts in Aroostook and Washington counties.
In times of tragedy and crisis, Boys & Girls Clubs have stepped up to provide safe places for kids and teens. Today, the organization is committed more than ever to ensure that club staff, members, families, and communities have the resources and support they need to navigate these uncertain times, while also partnering with state and local officials to do more.
“During these difficult times and club closures, our priority continues to be health, safety and education for our communities’ youth and families,” said Fenton Jones, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Border Towns.
“We understand the complications that result when the doors of local schools and our clubs are closed, and we are here to support our communities in any way we can,” Jones said.
The local organization is committed to providing vital relief services immediately, but communities will need clubs more than ever as the nation emerges from this time, Jones said.
The COVID-19 Relief Fund will enable club doors to reopen so that they can continue to provide out-of-school services to current members and the local community.
“With unemployment on the rise and the long-term economic impact of COVID-19 unknown, it’s crucial that we equip our young people with the essential skills to successfully enter the workforce,” said Jones.
“Also, when our clubs reopen, there is a concern that mental health resources will be needed to help youth as they transition out of this difficult time.”
To donate and to learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of Border Towns, visit www.bgc-bt.org. To learn more about what Boys & Girls Clubs are doing in communities all across the nation, visit www.bgca.org.
