The WISH Centre in Chatham is getting a new deal with the Municipality of Chatham-Kent that includes a rent freeze.
CK council met on Monday where they approved a request from the organization to postpone rent payments and to waive all outstanding rent payments in exchange for increased programming for youth and staying open later.
The WISH Centre has indicated that the $2,500 monthly rent charges for the building along with increased expenses in other areas threatened to close the facility.
Now that a new deal has been approved, the WISH Centre will be able to increase programs for children aged 13 years and younger as well as offer youth programming for those aged 14-18.
"Due to the WISH Centre budget constraints, it has prevented the organization from staying open later or offering programs that would give older youth refuge and a place to engage appropriately in activities and social relationships," wrote Rob Pollock, CK Director of Parks, Recreation and Facilities, in a report presented to council.
Pollock added children and youth often have nowhere to go and may be left in undesirable situations when the WISH Centre isn't open.
"If the building was closed and the programs ceased, this would have a negative impact on youth in this area of Chatham and for vulnerable children and families," he said.
As part of the deal, the Municipality will also forgive around $31,000 in owed rent. The proposed expanded programming would cost about $35,000.
The WISH Center has been providing programming since 1996 and provides youth programming for children aged 13 years and younger, including after school programs, designated professional development days, March break, and during summer holidays.
The centre is open to all children in the community and provides them with food, homework support, shelter, and safety.