Richardson donates to keep Cruces club open

Gov. Bill Richardson announced a $15,000 grant to help keep the Boys and Girls Club of Las Cruces afloat during a visit to the city Monday.

The Boys and Girls Club announced last week that it may have to close its doors if it can’t find additional funding. Telephones were shut off, and the club’s board president said the center doesn’t have any major donors left.

Richardson’s grant will keep the club open through the summer and give it time to find additional funding.

“I know the great work of the Boys and Girls Club,” Richardson said in announcing the grant. “I believe the Boys and Girls Club deserves a second chance.”

The funds come from a federal fiscal relief fund that can be drawn from at the governor’s discretion. The grant will go to the City of Las Cruces, which will administer it to ensure accountability.

It’s just the start of getting out of the hole for the club, which has a $90,000 debt beyond what Richardson granted. The governor called on the business community to help out.

While in Doña Ana County, Richardson visited a pre-kindergarten program in La Mesa to meet with students and parents. Richardson continues to push for increased funding for such programs.

“It’s my hope that someday we no longer have to turn children away, and that every pre-K program has enough funding and enough space to meet the needs of all New Mexican four-year olds,” Richardson said. “That is why this year my legislative package includes expanding our pre-kindergarten program from 2,200 kids to 5,000 kids statewide, as well as providing funds for course materials, transportation and technical assistance.”

Following the two public events, Richardson had a fundraiser for his presidential campaign at the home of a local farmer in the Las Cruces area.

Below is video of Richardson’s announcement related to the Boys and Girls Club and some photos of him signing autographs at the event. Thanks to CrucesLive.com for the photos and video.