East Idaho Times

Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson has announced the inclusion of $2,865,039 in funding for the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Magic Valley-Jerome Expansion Project in Jerome, Idaho. This funding was secured through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2025 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration Appropriations Act.

“For over 30 years, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Magic Valley have supported kids and families by fostering a brighter future for Idaho's youth,” said Rep. Simpson. “As a longtime supporter of this organization, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of their efforts in education, leadership, and personal development programs. I am pleased to champion greater opportunities for Magic Valley youth by securing much-needed funding for this pivotal expansion project.”

Lindsey Westburg, Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Magic Valley, expressed gratitude for Simpson's support: “We are immensely grateful to Congressman Simpson and his team for their pivotal role in securing community project funds to build and support Idaho communities. This project will allow us to expand critical youth development services and to provide a safe, nurturing environment for countless children and families in the Jerome community. The new facility will serve as a beacon of hope, offering educational support, mentorship, and recreational opportunities that will positively impact the lives of our youth for generations to come. Congressman Simpson's commitment to enhancing opportunities for our youth is truly commendable and will leave a lasting impact for years to come.”

The allocated funds will be used to construct a 20,000 square foot youth development center in Jerome that will serve up to 300 children per day. The facility will feature dedicated programming spaces for education classes, a teen center, cafeteria, offices, and daycare services catering to children from birth to age five. It aims to address food insecurity by providing meal services throughout the community and housing a food pantry. Additionally, it will offer workforce development programs, community service opportunities, access to higher education resources, and leadership training.

Despite some claims that CPF projects are "wasteful earmarks," proponents argue that Community Project Funding allows Members of Congress like Rep. Simpson to direct federal dollars back into local priorities within existing budget limits.

Rep. Simpson emphasized his unique position as Idaho’s only appropriator: "As Idaho’s only appropriator...ensure Idahoans’ hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho."

The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Magic Valley-Jerome Expansion Project is part of the Fiscal Year 2025 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration Appropriations Act which has been approved by the House Appropriations Committee.