Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend launching its first Saturday child care to better support local families
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend is launching its first Saturday programming beginning this week to provide additional child-care support for local families.
The organization says it will offer services for youth ages 5-18 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
The expansion marks the first time the organization will offer weekend services during the school year. The initiative is intended to fill child care gaps for Central Oregon parents who work on Saturdays and to increase the overall community impact of the club's programs.
The club will provide services for youth ages 5-18 Monday through Saturday. While the organization traditionally operated only on weekdays, the new Saturday hours will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the school year.
Boys & Girls Clubs CEO Michael Baker said in a news release that the decision to expand was based on the specific needs of local working parents.
"We are so excited to offer this additional day of service each week during the school year," Baker said. "For many of our families, Saturday is just another day when they have to work in order to make ends meet. Opening on Saturdays falls in line with our goal to serve more members, more often with deeper impact."
Current club members can register for the weekend sessions through the My Club Hub portal. The organization noted that a child does not need to be a current after-school member to participate, as options for Saturday-only registration are available for interested families.
The programs offered by the organization are designed to promote academic success, healthy lifestyles and good character. Families who wish to become members or learn more about the enrollment process can call the club at 541-617-2877 or visit the club's website..
