Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches) has announced funding to support youth sports programs, aimed at fostering community engagement, promoting physical activity, and providing opportunities for personal development among young residents. The initiative, announced by Romaine and the Suffolk County Youth Bureau, seeks to expand access to sports programming for underserved youths while encouraging participation in healthy recreational activities.
With childhood obesity rates and mental health issues on the rise and concerns about sedentary and isolated lifestyles among young people, the importance of promoting physical activity and sports participation cannot be overstated. Recognizing the transformative impact that sports can have on the lives of young individuals, Romaine has prioritized investment in youth sports programs as part of his broader commitment to promoting health and wellness in Suffolk County.
The funding allocated by Suffolk County as part of a funding stream created in the New York State Fiscal Year 2024 budget will support and appropriate funds to support team sports for underserved youth. By partnering with local community-based organizations and nonprofits, the county aims to create inclusive and accessible opportunities for youths of all backgrounds and abilities to participate in sports activities.
One of the key components of the initiative is the emphasis on reaching underserved youths who may face barriers to sports participation due to economic, social, or geographic factors. To this end, the Suffolk County Youth Bureau has announced that it accepted applications through May 8th for the Suffolk County Team Sports Grant program that may not exceed $25,000. Funding will be provided by the Suffolk County Youth Bureau via the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS).
Funding was created under the OCFS to provide awards to support youth team sports programs for underserved youths under the age of 18. It supports youth development through team sports programs. The Suffolk County Youth Bureau will review and evaluate each proposal for cost-effectiveness, impact, and measurable outcomes. Funding decisions and awards will be based on guidelines established by New York State.
Locally based organizations and nonprofits are encouraged to apply for funding to support initiatives that address the unique needs and interests of underserved youths, including those from low-income families, minority communities, and rural areas. Priority will be given to programs that promote principles including educational connection and achievement, physical health, mental health and well-being and community cohesion.
The announcement of funding for youth sports programs comes at a time when communities are increasingly recognizing the importance of investing in the physical and mental health and well-being of young people. By providing resources and support for sports initiatives, Suffolk County aims to empower youths to lead active, healthy lifestyles, develop valuable life skills, and build strong connections with their peers and communities.
As applications for funding end, organizations that submitted proposals and demonstrate a clear vision for how they will use the funding to benefit underserved youths in Suffolk County will soon be evaluated. With the support of County Executive Ed Romaine and the Suffolk County Youth Bureau, these initiatives have the potential to make a lasting impact on the lives of young individuals, creating a healthier, more vibrant future for Suffolk County.
