Park and recreation district has ample scholarship money for youth recreation

Posted

Blaine-Birch Bay Park and Recreation District 2 (BBBPRD2) is trying to spread the word about its youth athletic scholarship fund, which it started in 2019 to help families in need pay for equipment, registration fees and other costs related to sports and recreation.

BBBPRD2 currently has about $4,300 in its scholarship fund and the new program has received few applications so far.

“It’s a great resource and we’d love to see it used so that we can remove money as a barrier to participating in sports and other activities,” said Jeff Carrington, BBBPRD2 board chairman.

Scholarships could fund anything from dance classes to youth sports and Boys and Girls Club programs. Funds are distributed confidentially.

To be eligible, children must live in the Blaine school district and qualify for food stamps or Washington state’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program, or be eligible for free or reduced lunch. Foster children qualify regardless of family income.

BBBPRD2 is still fine-tuning its criteria, but program manager Heidi Holmes encourages anyone with a need for money to participate in a physical activity to apply. BBBPRD2’s board will review all applications and may approve specific cases that don’t meet the income guidelines posted on its website, she said.

“If it’s benefiting kids that live in the community and getting them healthier, the board will consider it,” Holmes said.

Application forms are available online and in person at the organization’s office at the Birch Bay Activity Center at 7511 Gemini Street in Birch Bay.

Money for the scholarship fund comes from the property tax levy that also funds BBBPRD2’s operating costs. For more information on the scholarships and how to apply, go to bbbparkandrec.org/scholarships or call BBBPRD2 at 360/656-6416.

Comments

No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here


OUR PUBLICATIONS