The Chatham-Kent Block Parent Program is keeping a watchful eye on areas to ensure safety, but now they're asking for someone to watch out for them.
The program, which started in 1978, is a way for residents to monitor areas, report suspicious activity to police, and educate others on public safety. For the past 17 years the program has received funding from the United Way of Chatham-Kent through grants. However, the funding cycle for the current grant will end March 31, 2019 and their application for another grant has been denied.
"Base funding is crucial to continue to cover day to day operations which includes part-time staff and office rental," as stated in a release from the program. "Personal safety awareness and injury prevention is still needed now more than ever."
The group has the option to reapply for funding in 2021, however, their future as a group until then is questionable.
“The agency cannot sustain its growth and development on bingo funds alone," said Chairperson Tanya Nooyen in a statement. "Without operational funding, supplementary grants are unattainable.”
Steve Pratt, chief executive officer with the United Way of Chatham-Kent, said they have established certain priorities for the upcoming funding cycle and the prevention program didn't not meet the criteria.
"To lead change in our community, we have identified our priorities for this funding cycle from 2019-2021, to be focused on supporting programs that help our children succeed in school, assist directly with mental health issues, and programs built to help alleviate poverty. For each priority, a set of priority outcomes are backed by leading research and practice in the non-profit sector," said Pratt in a statement. "Every grant we make is an investment in only those activities that will address our locally identified most pressing human and social needs."
Pratt said the United Way has received funding requests from several worthwhile programs with each funding cycle. However, not every program can be funded.
"There is no question that a huge gap exists between the needs of our community and our ability to fund all of the causes and programs that approach the United Way for funding," he said.
Although the Block Parent Program hasn't been approved for the 2019-2021 funding cycle, Pratt said they will still receive funds from the United Way for anyone who donates through the workplace payroll.
The number of those involved in the Block Parent Program has gone down over the years. According to a release, the current program involves 82 homes and seven businesses in Chatham-Kent. Those who are willing to help the group or learn more about it can, click here.
