Explanation
BACKGROUND: The purpose of this ordinance is to provide upfront financial support to Columbus Recreation and Parks Foundation's Adopt-a-Center Program. Adopt-a-Center is an annual community initiative led by the Columbus Recreation and Parks Foundation that brings holiday joy and essential resources to families across Columbus. Through partnerships with local businesses, civic groups, and individual donors, the program “adopts” more than 30 Columbus Recreation and Parks community centers and programs each year to provide warm meals, winter clothing, hygiene items, toys, and household essentials to residents in need. In 2024, Adopt-a-Center served over 8,000 Columbus residents by distributing more than 6,500 meals and thousands of gifts to youth, families, and seniors. In 2025, the program distributed over 6,500 meals at 24 community centers and at CRPD programs including Center Without Walls, ReRoute, VOICE and Therapeutic Recreation. The other intended outcome is to provide toys, warm winter clothing, and hygiene items to residents at the community centers. These are typically provided in tandem with the December holiday meals and holiday parties. Last year, the Foundation supported over 7,300 Columbus residents at the holiday December parties. The program helps ensure that every family, regardless of income, can celebrate the holiday season. By engaging volunteers and donors citywide, Adopt-a-Center fosters a stronger, more compassionate community while supporting the mission of connecting people through nature, wellness, and creativity.
This legislation is similar to Ordinance 2884-2025, which provided support for Adopt-a-Center last year in the same amount.
FISCAL IMPACT: Funds are available in the Neighborhood Initiatives subfund, subfund 100018.
Title
To authorize the City Clerk to enter a grant agreement with Columbus Recreation and Parks Foundation to provide upfront financial support for the Adopt-a-Center Program and to authorize an ap...
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