The YMCA on Avenue B got some much needed help to support their summer programs in a big way from the Bogalusa Mill.

The Mill donated $8,800, which will help with the funding for the various things the YMCA does during the summer.

“Since 2003, we’ve always received support for our summer program and this past year, the city ran into some financial difficulties and was unable to support our program,” YMCA Chief Volunteer Officer Stuart Parker said.

“So, (Bogalusa Mill) agreed for a one-time deal, to provide support for our summer programs for the kids of Bogalusa.”

Parker said the YMCA has swimming and a lot of camps and activities.

One of the camps is the Adventure Camp, which took place earlier this summer.

The Adventure Camp allows children to learn different things, including repelling and ascending, descending.

They get the chance to go on the zipline.

There is also a challenge course and the participants also participated in doing some arts and crafts .

This year’s adventure camp also allowed them to take a bullying seminar.

Parker is very thankful for the donation.

“We appreciate what they are doing for us because they’re giving back as a new company to the community and we appreciate it,” Parker said.

Parker said the YMCA is a non-profit organization, so the funding helps towards programs for the children.

“We put it back in. We have to have lifeguards, chemicals and electricity that runs the pump for the pool,” Parker said. “We have teachers and instructors we have to pay for the programs. This is our revenue, which is brought in through the community.”

The YMCA swimming pool is open 12-hours per weekday from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. Monday-Friday.

There are times set aside for senior swim, swimming lessons, open swim, member swim and family swim.

The YMCA also has pool parties.

Bogalusa Mill communications manager Kalisa Hyman said the YMCA summer camps are vital to the city and the youth here.

“When the Y lost its funding for this year’s summer program, it was fortunate that the Bogalusa Mill was able to help bridge the gap and find funding for the camps,” Hyman said. “It was important that the kids not be disappointed.”  

For more information on summer programs at the YMCA, call 732-3741.