All 70 Philadelphia public pools are set to open during the 2011 summer season.
Mayor Michael Nutter choked up while delivering the news at the kickoff of the "Splash and Summer FUNd" pool fundraising campaign on Tuesday. The fund's goal is to raise $600,000 by Apr. 30.
Mayor Nutter said the campaign had already received over $500,000 in commitments, including $100,000 pledges from First Niagara and Gerry and Marguerite Lenfest. United Health Care is pledging $60,000.
Bob Kane, First Niagara's Eastern Pennsylvania Regional President, will chair the fundraising campaign, with Darrin Johnson, United Health Care's Vice President of Marketing, serving as Co-Chair.
The Mayor got emotional while recalling that the city was forced to keep some pools closed during the summer of 2009. Corporate and community donations in 2010 allowed all of the city pools to open.
The "Splash and Summer FUNd" will accept donations from individuals, community organizations, and businesses. Donation levels begin at $10.00.
"I encourage residents and all of our community partners to help us ensure that families across Philadelphia have another wonderful summer," said Mayor Nutter.
