The Underground Gym is fighting to stay open.
The gym and youth centre along Simpson Street has offered a place for children in the neighbourhood a place to go after school for the past 14 years, but the centre has struggled financially. The gym’s operator, Peter Panetta, said it’s because the facility doesn’t receive core funding, but relies strictly on donations and fundraisers to keep the doors open.
Earlier this week said they need between $40,000 to $50,000 to keep the facility open for a year. Although the gym isn't in immediate danger of closing, Panetta said he wants to get the message out as soon as possible before the situation gets worse.
“We need money to pay our bills and buy food,” Panetta said. “We would probably need $2,000 a month give or take. The kids are here at the gym, they are safe, and they are fed. If we closed they wouldn’t be here and they would be back doing who knows what and hopefully not on the streets.”
He said the membership at the gym is steadily climbing and since September, about 200 have registered. The gym offers a variety of programs from working out to recreational activities like playing video games and pool, but it also provides a home-cooked meal.
Often youth who attend the gym tell Panetta that they haven’t eaten all day. He said that’s news that’s hard to take.
Stephen Papassay had gone to the gym with his three children for the past six years. He said he wanted to give his children a place to hang out where he could easily supervise them. The gym gives them a chance to learn the sport of boxing and get some exercise, he said.
“This place is very important to me and my kids,” Papassay said. “My kids love Peter and they love coming here every day and they love playing with their friends. My girls are starting to box and that’s one thing they like doing. Without the gym, my kids would probably be at home every day not doing anything.”
Those who wish to donate to the Underground Gym can contact Panetta at 622-5666 or drop in.
