In East Newton, there is a great discrepancy between what families need and the affordability/access to what is available to them. The families and children of Newton and the surrounding areas NEED for the Central Recreation Center's Gymnasium to be open for increased hours throughout the summer! We are advocating for the Gymnasium to open by noon each day. 

With children being out of school, they need as many positive outlets as possible to direct their energy in a constructive manner. Parks & Recreation are meant to be resources and services provided by the city for the purpose of leisure, entertainment, and recreational pursuits. We believe that our city's department generally fulfills this mission however, have allowed an equity gap to widen by not assuring that the children of East Newton have frequent access to the resources closest to them. Last month, there were 117 participants at the Central Gym in East Newton. In comparison, there were only 11 at the main downtown recreation center. These numbers are even with the decreased hours. Imagine the great use if it were open at noon!

If you believe that children are our future, please help us fill this gap and show the children of Newton that we care about how they use their free time. By signing this petition, you are helping us to encourage the Newton City Council that this swift change to increase the hours of the Central Gym is necessary as we promote healthy communities via physical activity. Thank You for your support!