WCHLA HOPING FOR $800K IN DONATIONS BEFORE OCT. 1

  

Officials with the Washington County Healthy Living Association say they need a dramatic increase in contributions for their new senior center if they’re to qualify for a major foundation grant.

Members of the Association tell the Brenham Banner Press that they could lose a half-million dollar grant if they don’t come up with $800,000 by October first.

The Mabee Challenge Grant would present the organization with $500,000 if their total donations reach the two-million-dollar mark by October first.  Officials say they have raised about 1.2-million dollars since the grant was announced last November.

Frank Blizzard, who is assisting with the fund-raising effort says, they appreciate every donation that has been made toward the center…but they need someone to make a large donation.

The new center will be built on Tom Green and Loesch streets on 4.2 acres donated by John and Julie Kenjura. Membership of the WCHLA has increased from 85 in 2003 to over 1,600 currently.

Blizzard says the association hopes to go out for bids sometime in October, with construction beginning a month later even if the Mabee fundraising goal isn’t met.

Those interested in donating can call WCHLA at 836-6552 or visit www.seniorcenterbrenham.com.