REVERE – It seems only appropriate that the For Kids Only (FKO)afterschool program receives a $400,000 grant to build a new facility during the program’s 30th anniversary year.
The Department of Early Education (EEC) and the Community Economic Development Assistance Corporation (CEDAC) awarded the grant to go toward the $2.8 million building project. The For Kids Only program is currently run out of 268A Broadway across from city hall. The new building planned for 85 Broadway will be 5,000 square feet and known as the Youth in Motion facility. In addition to the grant FKO is also fundraising from private sources to raise all $2.8 million.
FKO was one of 10 organization statewide selected to receive funding for this brand new state program to support early education and provide a quality environment for children. The program includes those from low-income households, with disabilities, who are English language learners or from newcomer populations, or who need supervised socialization activities.
“The new facility will have a health and fitness focus,†said Deborah Kneeland Keegan, co-founder and executive director of FKO. “We are excited to build a new home and expand year-round learning opportunities for children.â€
The new building helps the city launch a planned Business District revitalization. It will feature a large gymnasium, dance and yoga studio. It will also have a STEAM center for exposure to science, technology, engineering, art, math, a nutrition café, kitchen, library, computer lab and garden. There will also be a therapeutic space known as a “sensory room†to instill stress management.
There are currently 100 students enrolled in the program and with a new building up to 120 kids between K-8 could join. Currently, the program is at capacity. So far the old building at 85 Broadway has been knocked down and the foundation has been laid.
