Rockville Centre releases youth-related funding youth-related funding

The Hispanic Brotherhood of Rockville Centre will receive a $20,000 federal Community Development Block Grant to assist in conducting its after school tutorial program. The funding is part of $50,000 in grants for local youth-centered initiatives that are being released after a unanimous vote by the Town of Hempstead board last week. The Oceanside Counseling Center will also receive part of the money — from a New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) grant to help prevent juvenile delinquency.

“We’re very thankful to the Town of Hempstead for giving us this grant,” said Margarita Grasing, executive director of the Hispanic Brotherhood of Rockville Centre.

“I am thrilled that we are able to support organizations that offer positive support for the youth of Oceanside and Rockville Centre,” said town Supervisor Kate Murray in a written statement. “I know the communities will benefit from these monies which will finance a host of important services.”

“Both of these organizations do yeoman’s work,” said Councilman Anthony Santino. “They are different organizations with a common cause, preserving the innocence of youth, educating children and positively influencing young people and their families.”

“While these organizations are getting the grants, it’s really the children and our community that benefit,” added Murray.