ANAHEIM : Interfaith Unit Asks City for Funds to Support Recreation Programs

A grass-roots interfaith group asked the City Council this week to try to find a way to continue to fund a series of expanded recreation programs for the city’s youth.

Members of the Orange County Congregation Community Organization told the council that the programs--funded with more than $250,000 from the council last fall--have benefited hundreds of low-income children.

The funds paid for such things as expanded hours at the Anaheim Boxing Club; an outreach worker to help troubled girls; and the expansion of anti-gang programs at several parks and schools.

Members of the interfaith group, known as OCCCO, are asking Anaheim to fund the existing programs past December, which is the city’s current commitment. They are also asking for an additional $150,000 to pay for a youth employment center, a second outreach worker and a teen center in central Anaheim.

“We will be looking at ways to fund the programs past December,” City Manager James D. Ruth said. “I think the staff feels they should be continued. We’re looking at all the options, including grants.”

But resident Phil Knypstra said the council should think twice about funding a full-slate of programs because “it’s a sizable sum of money . . . no matter how commendable it is.”

“Politically, it may be difficult to say no to these folks,” Knypstra added.

Councilman Lou Lopez said he believes the city needs to find a way to continue funding the programs, despite tough financial times. “The best thing we can do for our young people is to keep them busy and involved in activities,” he said.