Community leaders donate to New Orleans summer camp after funds fall short

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — Community leaders say that when one door closes, another door opens, especially when it involves children and keeping them busy during the summer months.

The Dryades YMCA was filled with joy as IV Waste owner Sidney Torres committed funds to keep the summer camp running.

This comes after the Asher Institute was unable to fully fund its summer camp program.

“You have to continue the work that you do because you are touching lives in a meaningful way,” said Dryades YMCA’s Director Erika Mann.

With the new funding, 150 campers will continue attending the camp into August. Food will also be provided by New Orleans entrepreneur Larry Morrow.

“This is something that we talk about all the time. Just ways to impact the community and different things that we can do. So, when, of course, any opportunity presents itself, you know. You know, it’s always an honor to step up and help make that change,” said Morrow.

Torres says he jumped at the opportunity to help the camp. He wanted its doors to remain open, as he works with so many that rely on camps while they work.

“To be able to continue to work and not have to take off from work and to be able to do what they need to do while their kid is learning how to swim and learning things in life that are important for them to grow up and do well inside of this community,” said Torres.

New Orleans City Councilwoman Lesli Harris and Mann both agreed this is how local leaders should show up for children.

“It just really shows what community looks like when we can come together. To really save our children, I want to thank you. Thank you for all that you do for me when I thank you as well, because you are providing excellent food, nourishing our children,’ said Harris.

“I always had the intention of doing whatever it was I could to ensure that there’s a continuous service for the children. It’s important for children to have this and have this opportunity. And for families to have this so that they can continue to support themselves,” said Mann.

Mann adds that they also offered their facility to the hangout campers and staff to continue their summer camp.

Latest Posts