Henry Davison Youth Center benefited the community

I am a single mother of three young men, Arzal (21), Brandon (19) and Brian Jr. (18). I moved here from Chicago in 2004 to raise my sons in a safe environment and to get a better education.

When we arrived here, I was informed by the Harambee House there was a community center my sons could go to during summer and after school. My boys were at the center every day. I never had to worry about where my sons were or if they were safe. Henry Davison provided a safe haven for my sons and their friends. They enjoyed working on the computer, playing pool, meeting new friends and eating whenever they were hungry. Davison also helped the community and me by providing food for our families during the holiday season as well as clothing for our children. Not to mention the breakfast he provided every morning.

After the flood, our children no longer had that safe haven. This is when our families and community began to suffer. There are no places for our children to go and feel safe, especially when we are working or when some children don't have that safe haven at home.

We need the Henry Davison Youth Center opened again so we can again provide our children with alternatives besides the streets.

Catina Fondren

Cedar Rapids