City approves lease for non-profit to run children’s program
YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, FOX9) - The Yuma City Council has voted in favor of a lease agreement with the Arizona Housing Development Corporation that allows the non-profit to continue running a program for boys and girls, but it won't be the Boys and Girls Club program.
The decision comes after the Salvation Army broke its affiliation with the program last year leading to a settlement with the city over the property on 11th Street and 13 Avenue.
The unanimous vote allows the city to lease the property to the AZHDC till 2023 starting in February of 2020. The AHDC will run "The SHINE Program Boys & Girls Center," according to The City of Yuma (COY).
The City explained there will not be a change in service, just a change in the name. Officials explained the Boys and Girls Club of America program is not an option.
COY said the Boys and Girls Club program is not on the table because given the national hold on adding new charters.
The City of Yuma added The Salvation Army will leave the equipment for the children at the facility while the non-profits transition.
The SHINE Program will come with a local board, according to The City of Yuma. COY added the decisions about the program will be made by the AHDC Board which is made up of people who call Yuma home.
