BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — On Friday, Buffalo Police Athletic League (PAL) students greeted customers at Braymiller Market and helped them check out their groceries to raise money for the Camp Champs Round Up Campaign. Buffalo PAL is hoping to raise $40,000 to provide students with free summer programming.
"When kids are out of school, they tend to lose some of the knowledge that they gained during the school year. Our camps and clinics provide an opportunity for them to have some educational programming and some physical programming. They get to have a good time with their friends and we keep them in a safe environment," said Nekia Kemp, Executive Director of PAL.
Last year, Braymiller Market received $1 million from the City of Buffalo and Ciminelli to offset COVID-related losses.
Buffalo Common Council approves the forgivable loan of more than $560,000 for Braymiller Market and $3.5 million in grants to small businesses in the City of Buffalo.
"It gave us a lifeline because of the setbacks we had early on and we got a long way to go," said Stuart Green, owner of Braymiller Market. "We still need everyone's support."
Students had a great time participating as 'celebrity helpers.' Tyanna Kemp says PAL programming keeps her busy and engaged.
"I've been junior cashiering, asking them how their day was or would they like to take a bag or would they like to donate for camp," said Tyanna Kemp."It keeps me busy so I won't be sitting around all day watching TV."
Braymiller Market is encouraging customers to round up their grocery totals to support PAL's fundraising efforts through June 30. You can find more information here.
