TYLER, Texas (KLTV) – The Panola County Chamber of Commerce is hosting the Spring Youth Sports Closet event.
Playing youth sports can cost a lot of money for parents, from fees to equipment and uniforms, making it difficult to pay for all the sports costs.
Several other groups in Panola County are banding together to give young people who can't afford equipment the opportunity to get out and play the sport they love.
“Everyone we asked to be a part of this said yes. One of the most rewarding things in your career is to turn around and benefit local children. I think it's about getting people involved in local initiatives that bring, because we want to see them turn around and keep that talent here in Panola County. We know that if they feel supported, one day they will remember that,” said Keri Perrault Vance, executive director of the Panola County Chamber of Commerce.
One of the organizations involved, the Carthage Service League, operates a thrift store just down the road from the Chamber of Commerce. When the event first started, the combination was easy.
“When we heard about what Keri was doing with the Chamber of Commerce and the Sports Closet, we realized that donations were being made and we were able to partner with them to donate those items and help them. I realized that we would gather here in a common place.'' Children can come and access those items when they need them. ” said Janet Humber, president of the Carthage Service Federation.
The group hopes to continue providing a place for children to come and pick up the sports equipment they need. They hope other counties will offer similar opportunities.
“We want to help all of Panola County, not just Carthage, but everyone who lives in Panola County. We want to spread to other counties so they want to do the same.” We hope that,” said Sharon Roberson Jones, Executive Director of Excellent Teen Choice Group.
The group accepts donations year-round and opens its closets when major sports seasons begin. The spring event ends on May 24th. Anyone wishing to donate or receive youth baseball or softball equipment should visit or contact the Panola County Chamber of Commerce in Carthage.
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