The fun will be at the Fireman’s Grounds in Point Gratiot, so children have enough space to play and socially distance as well. “Thanks to many generous community donations to sponsor youth during this difficult summer, the only fees for summer will be membership registration and an early dropoff fee,” reads the club’s Facebook post. The membership registration fee is only $15 and the early dropoff fee is an extra $25.

To maintain health and safety, the club is taking many measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Children will have their temperature checked every single day before leaving their car, assuring they do not have a temperature above 100.4. Parents will also be asked a set of questions regarding travel and contact history on every Monday. Masks are required to be worn by staff and masks are available for the youth, but not required.

“Health and safety is our number one priority,” said Anneliese Bruegel, club executive director. “The most challenging part was finding a place to hold the program, but we found the most perfect spot.”

Handwashing is required before entering the program area and hand sanitizer will be administered throughout the day to the youth and staff. Staff will also be cleaning and sanitizing all surfaces and objects used throughout the sessions everyday. Staff will also be choosing activities that provide the least member to member interaction and those with limited amounts of equipment and supplies. There will be two staff per 10 children on hand, allowing for social distancing.

Submitted Photo Each day, the children have an opportunity to go swimming.

“I can’t even tell you how much time I’ve spent talking with other clubs, reading the guidelines from the state, and talking to professionals about opening safely this year,” Bruegel said. “I was really worried, but it ended up working out really well. We are going to have such a fun summer.”

On their Facebook page, the club puts up almost daily updates on what the kids are doing and how much fun they’re having. On Wednesday, they posted, “Mrs. Vara and Ms. Starwalt joined us today and presented a STEAM Sensation workshop, made possible by the Garman Family Foundation through the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo,” reads the post. “The children learned about solar energy by making their own solar powered ovens.” The kids were able to make s’mores heated up without a campfire or even a spark. “The children enjoyed all of the interactive and hands-on steps that led to a scrumptious treat created in their very own solar oven!” The children have also enjoyed doing calisthenics with Mr. Gayang, decorating the sidewalks with chalk, swimming, playing checkers, and making new friends. Other future activities will include art, nature hikes, gym time activities, and more STEAM programs.

The main focus of the club’s summer recreation program is to have a safe, healthy, and fun summer. Mayor of Dunkirk Wilfred Rosas and the City of Dunkirk have planned this program for weeks now, and it seems to be successful, according to the parents. “I’m so glad our kids have a safe place to spend their summer!” Monica Robb, parent, said. “Thanks so much Boys & Girls club.”

“We take so much pride in making this a safe and amazing place for children to grow, bond and make memories,” Melissa Robb Cheverez, staff member, said.

This program has been in the community for years and going without it could have been devastating to many families. “This program is so critically important because there are really no affordable child care options and there are very limited options for things for kids to do during the summer while their parents work,” Bruegel said. “It’s been so wonderful to get a program up and running for this year, the parents are so relieved that they can rely on this program for the summer.”

Submitted Photo The boys and girls decorate the sidewalks with chalk.