Help on the Backstretch

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CHILDREN PROGRAMS

An additional component of Chaplain Charles Patane's ministry services for Penn National Race Course is a daily childcare program during summer months from 7 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The program is available for all employees working the backstretch.

Currently, one part-time and two full-time employees help manage the daycare. Wilma Smith, who heads the summertime program, said an average of 20 children participate every day. "Sometimes I think that I'm the only permanent thing in these children's lives," she said.

Smith said financial assistance from the likes of Penn National Race Course, Horsemen’s Benevolence and the Jockey Club Foundation are very helpful in keeping the children's ministries operational. In addition, donations from churches and individuals also play an important role. She added, "Our current needs are primarily assorted craft supplies to help keep the kids busy and, of course, prayer."

For more information on how you can help support the Children's Ministries of Penn National Race Course, please contact Tracy Young at (717)428-9701.

TESTIMONIALS

One 9-year-old girl has been attending the daycare program for about four years because both her mother and grandmother work on the backstretch. "We learn about God. I like the crafts we do best. We made an American flag today out of sandpaper, colored sand and sticky stuff. I'd like to be an exercise rider when I grow up and I really like Wilma," she said.

A 10-year-old girl has attended for five years because her parents work on the backstretch. I like being around other kids and the crafts. I want to be a blacksmith like my mom when I grow up. I think if people help us out now, we will have a good childhood, so then when we get older we can help others and donate stuff too.

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