The Decatur County United Fund and its board of directors recently announced the approval of $10,000 in the form of a one-time grant to the South Decatur Youth Football organization.

For almost 20 years, the South Decatur Youth Football program has been providing the sport to approximately 100 kids from southern Decatur County. The program is a not-for-profit group that is orchestrated by active parents who work to provide a safe and fun environment for kids ages 5 to 12, where the children learn leadership skills, responsibility, teamwork and develop a love for the game of football.

But it has not been all fun and games for the kids at South Decatur. Earlier this year, the program experienced a serious setback when the high school’s storage shed was attacked by an army of rats that chewed through equipment and caused more than $30,000 worth of a damage.

“We do have an insurance policy on the equipment shed and it’s contents, however they will not cover damage caused by rodents,” South Decatur Youth Football Program president Jamie Winchester explained. “We greatly appreciate the help getting us back on our feet, and promise to use wisely the grant money. Thank you for keeping the kids in our community playing in our community.”

The United Fund grant provided funding that went toward purchasing new pads, pants, helmets and jerseys for the young players. According to United Fund executive director Joane Cunningham, the United Fund recognized the importance of exercise, health and team camaraderie.

“The board reviewed the South Decatur Youth Football Program request at a recent board meeting and felt the 100 county youths could benefit from continuing the program,” United Fund board president Sarah Nahmias said. “The United Fund provides funding to many agencies and programs that promote health, education and development of our youth. The board is pleased to provide this one-time grant to support exercise and health of our community youth.”

Cunningham agreed with Nahmias.

“The board carefully considers and discusses each request received through the office,” Cunningham said. “The current board is very actively involved with the community and takes into consideration the need, the number of individuals affected and the benefit to our community. The United Fund stands by its mission of mobilizing the power of our community to develop and maintain resources that meet human needs.”