Lindsay Healthy Start gets big boost

Healthy Start Director Janie Elson and her staff felt like they'd won the lottery learning the center is getting a $10,000 grant from the Fresno Regional Foundation.

“It is very rare that a family resource center receives money for basic needs - most funding is for specific programs,” said Elson. “This is truly a much needed and appreciated donation.”

The money will be used to buy coats, shoes, heaters and bedding for children of the town's poorest families.

“Sixty-five percent of our students are MediCal eligible and 86 percent are eligible for a free and reduced lunch,” meaning they live at or below poverty level, said Elson.

“Last year 151 students in the district were identified as homeless,” Elson continued. “Obviously, the need is great.”

Established in 1966, the Fresno Regional Foundation connects philanthropists with community organizations.

This month Lindsay Healthy Start and Woodlake Family Resource Center are grant recipients.

Contact The Recorder newsroom at 784-5000, Ext. 1044.

This story was published in The Porterville Recorder on Jan. 3, 2007