West Side Community Center Secures Grant for Summer Youth Basketball League

Local youth on Buffalo's West Side will have a new, safe outlet for recreation this summer. West Side Community Services, located on Vermont Street, announced Monday that they have secured a $15,000 grant from the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation to fund a comprehensive, free summer basketball league for children ages 10 to 15. The funds will cover the costs of facility rentals, referee stipends, team jerseys, and an end-of-season banquet. More importantly, the league will be entirely free for families living in the 14213 and 14201 zip codes, removing the financial barriers that often prevent lower-income children from participating in organized club sports. "Keeping kids active and engaged during the summer months is critical for our neighborhood," said Executive Director Crystal Rodriguez. "This isn't just about basketball; it's about mentorship, teamwork, and giving these kids a positive environment when school is out. We are incredibly grateful for the foundation's support." Registration for the league will open on April 15th, and games are set to begin in late June. The center is currently actively seeking local adult volunteers to serve as coaches and scorekeepers for the eight-week season.