Title
Report on Recreation and Parks Department Financial Assistance Program
Body
To: Honorable Chair and Members of the Recreation and Park Commission
From: Amy Wooldridge, Recreation and Parks Director
Re: Report on Recreation and Parks Department Financial Assistance Program
BACKGROUND
At the September 19, 2020 Recreation and Parks Commission meeting, it was requested that staff bring a report on financial assistance in Alameda Recreation and Parks Department (ARPD) programs. Staff has reviewed the program and appreciates the opportunity to solicit feedback from the Commission on ways to expand and market the financial assistance program as well as making it more accessible to those families and seniors who may need it.
DISCUSSION
ARPD offers financial assistance in a variety of ways, both for youth in summer and after school programs as well as at Mastick Senior Center. Financial assistance for youth takes two forms as described below.
1) ARPD directly provides discounted rates for programs, ranging from 25% to 50% fee reductions. This program generally three to four families each session with more in summer programs. ARPD budgets $2,000 - $3,000 each year and in some years, funding is supplemented by other local organizations and family trusts. However, last year, only $579 was provided in total, in part because of the spring program cancellations and limited summer programming due to COVID-19.
2) ARPD also coordinates with outside agencies that provide childcare financial assistance such as Bananas, 4Cs of Alameda County, Child Care Links and Homeschool Assistance. Families apply directly to these agencies and then register their child with ARPD. Staff works closely with the agency's case worker to confirm the financial assistance level being provided and reimbursement requirements. For example, Bananas offers different tiers based on family income levels, ranging from 25% - 100% of costs and the family pays the remainder. Approximatel...
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