The Chilton County YMCA’s Board of Directors announces the Strong Kid’s Campaign for 2015.

Each year the Chilton County YMCA asks the community to help by providing money to fund scholarships for children whose parents are facing financial hardships. These scholarships help ensure that children are in a safe and nurturing place and not left home alone.

According to Pam Harding, finance chairwoman for the board, any and all contributions are appreciated, and as always, all contributions are tax deductible.

The YMCA expects to receive more requests for assistance than in past years since the requests have already begun to come in. Harding said it is the hope of the board that each qualifying request can and will be approved with help from the community. This past year, the local YMCA provided assistance to 59 children in the after school and summer camp programs.

Examples of how donations can help a child are: $500 sponsors a child for a full season of summer camp, $100 provides a youth membership for a child or teen, $50 will provide swimming lessons for a child, and $25 gives a child the opportunity to participate in a Y program.

Even though the YMCA accepts donations any time of the year, it is important for monies to come in before school is over and summer camp begins. The YMCA depends on community involvement to succeed and requests that everyone be generous in giving. Your donations can be monthly, quarterly or yearly.

The YMCA is also sponsoring several fundraisers to assist in raising funds. May 16 is the 2015 YMCA Fishing tournament, and on June 6 is the 2015 Fall Co Ed Softball tournament and shrimp boil. You can contact the YMCA at 205-755-2382 for more information, visit ymcaofchiltoncounty.com, or visit the Y at 405 Ollie Ave. in Clanton, for information or to make a donation.