Under the Giving Tree

Elmont, N.Y.--A tree grows in Belmont Park. Forty-five trees have been donated by the New York Racing Association to the Belmont Child Care Association (BCCA) to help raise funds for Anna House, a child care center located at Belmont Park. Anna House offers programs for the children of backstretch workers age six weeks to five years.

Mature varieties of Oaks, Elms and Maples will be available for purchase for $100.00. Included in a person's donation is a certificate of patronage and a commemorative card in recognition of their gift. A personalized plaque is also available for an additional $60.00.

The trees will be planted around Belmont Park with one tree to be planted in the children's garden at Anna House in memory of owner-breeder Richard  Bomze (Fourstardave and Fourstarallstar) who passed away on March 11th after a lengthy battle with emphysema. Mr. Bomze was a staunch supporter of Anna House, having made contributions since it's founding in 2002.

Anna House is open all year round from 5 a.m. to 1 p.m. which coincides with the typical work schedule of backstretch employees. Catering to approximately seventy children, Anna House offers a variety of early childhood education programs in reading, writing, math and science. Also offered is day care and after-school tutoring for students in elementary and middle school.

Belmont Park, owned and operated by the New York Racing Association is the first racetrack in North American to offer a facility such as Anna House to its backstretch employees.

For more information on how you might purchase a tree or make a donation to the Belmont Child Care Association please call 516-488-2103