The Operation Round Up board granted $13,533.92 at its last meeting to three different organization that serve three different communities, bringing their grand total of giving to $757,354.45 

Sylvia’s Child Advocacy Center was granted $8,208.92 for a child-friendly deposition room, equipment and a transcription service. This room would allow children to testify against their abusers without having to go before a jury or judge or be in the same room as their abusers. According to Sylvia’s Center, success in the program will equate to less trauma for victims. 

“Over the last year, we have seen some of the most traumatic and extensive cases we have since we began,” Executive Director Kassie Frasier said. “As we have improved and refined our services, more and more cases are going to court and more predators are being apprehended.” 

Western Boone Little League was granted $3,950 toward a renovation to its concession stand building. In particular, the HVAC system is no longer working. It plans to upgrade the system before the fall and winter months, according to Lindsey Hurless, president. 

The board also approved $1,375 for ZCAHG Sullivan Munce Cultural Center for a hydraulic lift to help repair the elevator system in the facility. According to Executive Director Cynthia Young, the equipment would be used to transfer first floor material to the collection storage area on the second floor. This is essential because new exhibits have increased in recent years. 

The next grant application deadline is Friday, Aug. 7 at noon. Applications and guidelines can be found at www.bremc.com/community/operation-round-up-grants/.