Security has been enhanced at the Okanagan Boys and Girls Club in Vernon.
On Wednesday, upgrades were unveiled at the west entrance of the club, including a redesign that restricts who can enter the building.
“Access control allows us to better manage and safeguard the kids in our programs,” said Kirstie Blanleil, Okanagan Boys and Girls Club director.
Enhanced security is partly a result of an incident in 2014, in which a man, who was staggering and bleeding from the mouth, went into the lobby and then into the playground where there were 30 children.
The upgrades also include an expanded front office area.
The $43,000 in funding came from the Vernon Rotary Club, the provincial government and the Regional District of North Okanagan.
“I am happy to hear these improvements will make such a significant difference to the club’s day to day operations,” said Eric Foster, Vernon-Monashee MLA.
The club provides a number of services, including after-school care and low-cost recreation programs.
“These services meet a real need in the community, and the regional district recognizes the importance of ensuring they remain strong and effective,” said Juliette Cunningham, Greater Vernon Advisory Committee chairperson.