By Cindy Himes

We have all had to make necessary changes to our daily routines and business practices over the past year due to the pandemic.  And within our local business community, none have felt the strain of COVID-19 more than the non-profits.

 

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania has assisted local children and families for centuries.  Since 1888, they have been widely known as historic providers.  This year, with new challenges seemingly waiting around every corner, the Boys & Girls Clubs had their work cut out for them in supporting their Club communities.

 

An unexpected assist came from the Penguins Wives Association when the ladies made a monetary donation to the Boys & Girls Clubs from their previous season of fundraising.  The Penguins team’s wives and girlfriends raised funds with auctions during the 2019-20 season and from the sale of their “Welcome to Our Table” cookbook.

 

The Boys & Girls Clubs used the donation to create their Club on the Go initiative, a program that provides basic necessities that families need during COVID.  Household supplies including soap, cleaning supplies and toilet paper were packaged and delivered for families in need.

 

In addition, Penguins defenseman Kris Letang and wife Catherine made a donation to the Boys & Girls Clubs, making it possible to replenish supplies used for Club on the Go.

 

“Boys & Girls Clubs is so grateful to the Lady Pens and Letang Family for supporting our COVID-19 relief efforts, especially “Club on the Go” which has provided much needed basic supplies and enrichment art and stem kits to the doors of youth in Allegheny and Somerset Counties, stated Lisa Maria Palmieri, President & CEO at Boys & Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania.  “Without this partnership, thousands of children and families may have lost a connection to the Club.”

The Boys & Girls Clubs continue to keep youth members engaged physically, mentally and emotionally while normal socializing at school and Clubhouses is impeded by the pandemic.  The Club on the Go program has grown to inspire members to explore healthy eating, cooking & nutrition, art & creativity, physical fitness and STEM learning.

 

As doors begin to open at the Clubhouses, BGCWP continues to assist children and families, both in person and virtually, maintaining their invaluable connection to the community.

 

If you would like to join the Pittsburgh Penguins and Penguins Foundation in supporting the Boys & Girls Clubs, contact their administrative office at contact@bgcwpa.org.