City of Arlington , Texas Fiscal Year 2020
Support Our Youth and Families
The City ’ s mission to Support Our Youth and Families became even more critical in FY20 when the coronavirus pandemic arrived . Many families were left struggling , but their City was ready to help . With acts of kindness , creative solutions and innovative new facilities , Arlington is positioned to be an even better place to live , learn , work and play into the next decade .
Libraries and parks make great neighborhoods . And the City opened both this year in the new East Library and Recreation Center . The stateof-the-art facility combines two of the most popular amenities in The American Dream City to offer a variety of programs and resources for residents of all ages . The grand opening in November 2020 gave the community a place to exercise the body and mind – and a reason to celebrate in the midst of a challenging year .
Arlington ISD Feeds Struggling Families
Arlington ISD Opens Natatorium
When schools across the country closed to stop the spread of COVID-19 , many families were left facing food insecurity . Arlington ISD quickly recognized the need and began distributing meals to local families . Less than two months after schools closed , the district had already served its onemillionth meal .
Arlington ISD opened its first-ever district pool in October 2020 , giving student athletes a world-class training and competition facility . The 50-meter pool was built in Italy and shipped to Arlington in pieces . The facility also includes a warmup pool and seating for 1,000 spectators . The school district plans to use the pool for other community functions including water safety courses and a club program .
Also in FY20
• Arlington ISD was able to celebrate the class of 2020 with help from the Cowboys . The district hosted graduation ceremonies at AT & T Stadium , allowing for social distancing and other COVID-19 precautions .
• The Texas Rangers also provided a safe option for local students , hosting dozens of graduation ceremonies . In fact , the May 29 , 2020 ceremony was the first public event held at the new ballpark .
• The Arlington Tomorrow Foundation contributed nearly $ 5.5 million through 11 grants in FY20 to enhance city services and support a variety of charitable causes across The American Dream City . The grants , both large and small , included $ 25,000 to provide childcare benefits to frontline healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic and $ 35,000 to establish a Boys & Girls Club branch inside the newly-renovated Arlington Life Shelter .
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