The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has awarded Ogden a $120,000 grant to start a youth sports program at the Marshall White Center.
The program is designed for youths living in HUD projects near the center, including organized sports and games, special classes and activities and drug resistance education.Mayor Glenn Mecham said the program will give youths a chance to establish personal relationships with adults and learn social and coping skills.
"Central Ogden youth are in need of a safe, wholesome environment that will foster self-esteem and improve their resistance to substance abuse," Mecham said.
According to the grant proposal, about 93 children live in HUD housing projects in the area and nearly 98 percent of their parents said they would support a sports and activities program.
"The community was overwhelmingly supportive. It's nice to get some funding to now put this program into works," said Annette Cottle, Ogden recreation manager.
Officials hope to begin the program later this summer with about 60 children. Youngsters from other HUD projects in the city also will be invited to participate and will be transported to and from the center.
Organized sports and games will be held three times a week, and will include basketball, baseball, boxing, volleyball and tennis.
In addition, members of Weber State University and Ogden High School sports teams will work with youths two to three times a month.
Drug resistance and self-esteem lessons will be taught twice a week along with arts and crafts lessons. Two other days a week music, dance, drama, arts, 4-H and swimming classes will be taught.
In addition, the Black Heritage Choice, Hispanic Image of Utah and the Japanese Global Council will provide cultural awareness programs.