Jason Teakle
BRANT NEWS

Needed repairs and renovations to the Boys and Girls Club of Brantford’s building are being supported by federal government funds.

Brant MP Phil McColeman on Friday afternoon announced $228,000 in funding from Ottawa that will help pay for roof repairs, the replacement of gym flooring, a new heating system and other upgrades to the interior and exterior of the 24-year-old Edge Street facility.

“The Boys and Girls Club is an immensely valuable institution in this community that has been creating opportunities for local youth for more than 40 years,” McColeman said. “These improvements will lead to enhanced programs and allow the club to continue helping young people reach their potential for many years to come in a first-class facility.”

The money will also help fund the installation of a rock climbing wall and computer lab upgrades.

McColeman spoke to about 30 children gathered at the club.

“Your goals and your dreams will be achieved if you want them to,” McColeman said. “The Boys and Girls Club is here to help you do whatever you want to do.”

Boys and Girls Club of Brantford executive director Deanna Searle said the federal funding comes as part of a $1 million fundraising campaign in support of the club.

“Our building is more than 24 years old and there are areas that have long been in need of replacements, upgrades and enhancements,” Searle said. “The building has been here since 1989 and it is important that we invest in it so it is here for another 25 years.”

The Boys and Girls Club of Brantford is a non-profit agency that provides activities and programs for hundreds of children and youth. The club offers recreation, social interaction and educational programs that build confidence, independence, self-esteem and self-respect.

The club launched a fundraising campaign in the spring of last year with a goal to raise more than $1 million to address capital improvements.

The Rotary Club of Brantford started the Boys and Girls Club of Brantford in 1969.