The People’s United Community Foundation, the philanthropic arm of People’s United Bank, announced today that it has awarded $10,000 to the Sara M Holbrook Community Center. As a federally designated refugee relocation site, Burlington continues to grow and grapple with changing community needs. One of the greatest needs for newly arrived families is mastering the English language.
To help the learning process, the funding from People’s United Community Foundation will support Sara M. Holbrook Community Center’s New Arrivals program. This five-week summer program provides more than 80 children, ages 4-14, with English language skills in a fun and educational atmosphere. Experienced teachers and supportive volunteers engage children in an array of activities including reading, music, journaling, arithmetic, community outings, and a week of science exploration at Shelburne Farms. Approaching its 26th year, New Arrivals operates when children are out of school and potentially losing the English skills they acquired during the school year.
“The longstanding support of the People’s United Community Foundation has been critical to the expansion and success of this program,” stated Leisa Pollander, Executive Director, Sara M.Holbrook Community Center. “Keeping children actively engaged and challenged in literacy, science and math activities during the summer prevents the ‘slip’ noted during the months when school is not in session.”
“We are pleased to once again support the Sara M. Holbrook Community Center as they work to bolster the academic skills of our children,” said Michael Seaver, Officer, People’s United Community Foundation and President of People's United Bank in Vermont. “The center is playing a key role in helping them succeed and we are very fortunate to have them in our community.”
Established in 2007, People’s United Community Foundation was formed to help support programs and activities that enhance the quality of life for citizens in the communities that People’s United Bank serves. People’s United Bank, founded in 1842 and serving customers from New York to Maine through a network of more than 400 branches, is the largest independent bank headquartered in New England. The Foundation places special emphasis on programs designed to promote economic self-sufficiency, education and improved conditions for low-income families and neighborhoods. The funding priorities of the Foundation include affordable housing, community development, and youth development.