Chicopee Boys & Girls Club needs help

Date: 12/15/2009

By Katelyn Gendron

Reminder Assistant Editor



CHICOPEE -- The Boys and Girls Club of Chicopee has not had a banner year -- rather, quite the opposite.

Their budget was cut by $250,000 at a time when the community's demands on the nonprofit are escalating. The need is great this holiday season and not just for presents, but for general assistance that would help to keep the doors open.

"We just need to keep the lights on at this point," Cecile Larose, development director of the Boys and Girls Club, told Reminder Publications. "I don't want to sugarcoat it -- we are that desperate."

She added the club needs basic materials to keep their programs running such as markers, paper, board games, sports equipment as well as kitchen supplies. The aforementioned items exclude the needs of those families during this holiday season.

Larose said general supplies will not just help one family but all those who come to the club for activities.

"We're certainly willing to give help ... and we just want to make sure that the kids are happy and have something under the tree," Clarisa Matlasz, assistant director of the Boys and Girls Club, said. "As a community we're working hard to provide for those in need."

She noted the club provides services for 180 families.

Matlasz explained there has been an influx in the number of children attending after-school programs and a drop in daycare for those parents who can't afford childcare.

She said some families have had to forego membership to the Boys and Girls club because they cannot afford the annual dues of $25. "[It's a matter of] putting food on the table versus having a membership at the club," Matlasz added.

She noted those able to donate can sponsor a membership online or via mail.

Holiday toys or gift cards for those ages five to 18 or general needs such as batteries, computer mice, wall clocks, dish towels, cooking products and cookware may be dropped off at the Boys and Girls Club, 580 Meadow St.

For more information call visit www.bgcchicopee.org or call 592-6707. Check donations may be mailed to Larose at the Boys and Girls Club, 250 Meadow St., Chicopee, MA 01013.