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The PACK Summer Camp Is Back

By Carl Orth | The Suncoast News

Published: May 21, 2008

NEW PORT RICHEY - It looks like PACK will get by with a little help from its friends.

Money problems threatened to shorten the annual summer camp for youths with disabilities after a $50,000 state grant was a victim of budget cuts. For a time it appeared a number of the 55 youths who applied would be turned away.

Both Verizon and the Pasco Sheriff's Charities were among many groups and individuals that came to the rescue of PACK - Pasco Association of Challenged Kids - after an article on its financial problems appeared in the May 10 edition of The Suncoast News.

State Sen. Mike Fasano, R-New Port Richey, had spread the word PACK needed help.

"It's just incredible," Barry Cohen said about the outpouring of support. He and wife Paula have been operating the nonprofit group for the past 12 years.

"People look at me funny when I say 'don't worry, it always works out,' " Cohen commented. "You just got to have a little faith and believe. This is a wonderful community we live in."

His faith was amply rewarded. As he spoke, he held in his hand a letter from Verizon authorizing $9,500 for PACK. Pasco Sheriff's Charities, the nonprofit charitable arm of the Sheriff's Office, gave another $5,000. Individuals helped out as well.

In little more than a week, Fasano announced, some $19,200 has been raised. The PACK camp will be extended to a full month from June 23 to July 18 at River Ridge Presbyterian Church, 9230 Ridge Road. So much money was raised that PACK will be able to bank some funds to go toward next year's camp.

"It is with a grateful heart that I thank all who stepped up to assist this fine organization and the individuals and families it serves," Fasano said. Fasano presented the checks from contributors during PACK's May 17 fundraising Bowl-a-thon.

While some question marks linger over the 2009 summer camp if the economy doesn't improve, Cohen says he tries not to worry too far in advance.

PACK will continue to count on a little help from their friends. "Mike has lots of friends," Cohen concluded. "He's a terrific person. He's been a wonderful friend to PACK for 12 years. It's great to have friends like that."

Carl Orth can be reached at corth@suncoastnews.com or 727-815-1068.

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