Wilson Foundation awards $375,000 for squash program

Nardin Academy on Cleveland Avenue in Buffalo has provided its facilities for the program. (Derek Gee/News file photo)

A youth squash program has received a three-year, $375,000 matching grant challenge from the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation.
716 Squash will use the funds to support its year-round academic and athletic youth development program.
“The mission of 716 Squash is to empower youth in Buffalo with limited resources to reach their full potential," said Hope Blinkoff Lynch, the executive director.
716 Squash recruited 28 fourth- and fifth-graders this spring from West Hertel Academy and West Buffalo Charter School, and provided after-school tutoring at no cost to families.
716 Squash participants are attending a free, five-week-long enrichment camp this summer at Nardin Athletic Facility. The program has formalized a facility partnership with Nardin Academy for year-round access to its courts and classroom space.