Donors have come through to enable the summer SAFE BASE program to run for its customary four weeks, said Angela Henry, director of the after-school program.
Until this week, the program had enough funds to operate for three weeks beginning June 6. Now the program will run for the entire month of June.
Two significant gifts have enabled the extension.
First is $3,000 from Iolan Earl Croley in memory of his recently deceased wife, Cinda.
Henry said the Croleys’ three grandchildren regularly participate in SAFE BASE programs and a recent article in the Register about the program’s dire straits “spoke to him,” about how he could both honor Cinda’s memory and help a worthwhile program.
“Mr. Croley said he appreciated the good work SAFE BASE was doing in the community and how the program was helping not only his grandchildren, but other children as well,” Henry said.
“We are flattered that he chose SAFE BASE for his tribute” to his wife, Henry said.
COX COMMUNICATIONS came through with a donation of $4,000 to more than cap the amount needed for an additional week of the summer program.
Henry had appealed to Cox for the sum.
The communications giant said in an official statement that it “recognized the value” of SAFE BASE programs for USD 257 students and commended Henry for her commitment to the program.
Eight sources of funding will float the summer program. In addition to the gifts from Croley and Cox Communications are those from Thrive Allen County, the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, the Helen Gates Whitehead Trust, USD 257, USDA Summer Meal Program and the City of Iola.
The summer program meets Monday through Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Lincoln Elementary School. On Thursdays the children travel out of town on field trips and are away all day.
This is the 11th year of the program.
