Campaign offers financial help

The Family Y is known for a lot of things -- swimming lessons, youth recreation programs and fitness programs.

//

"We do so much more," said Janet Dunn, the chief operation officer for the Family Y. "We operate 35 child care sites, and our mission is no one will be turned away."

The Family Y is raising money through its Strong Kids Scholarship Campaign to help needy children afford Family Y programs and services.

"There are 1,800 people who want to participate in Family Y programs, but can't afford it. We give 10 percent to 100 percent scholarship assistance based on need and income," said Millie Schumacher, the Family Y's community relations director.

Of those receiving assistance, about 80 percent need the money for child care, she said. Some of those who receive the scholarships are elderly people.

Many of the children who attend Prime Time after-school programs, the two full-time day-care centers and camp programs working families rely on for day-care during the summer and school breaks, receive some financial assistance.

The goal of the six-week campaign is to raise $240,000, said Dunn. As of Feb. 27, about $174,000 had been raised. The campaign ends Tuesday.

"This is a person-to-person campaign," she said. "What we do is make personal calls. The majority of it really is sitting down and telling our story."

To find out more about the Family Y's campaign or its programs, call (706) 922-9622.