THE MAY 15 editorial questioning the use of state funding for the state's zoos is a random attack on a vulnerable community. Nearly every nonprofit zoo across the country is heavily supported by a state, county, or municipal funding stream; without these dollars there would be no zoos.
The Franklin Park Zoo plays many roles, from education to conservation to community support. More than 35,000 Massachusetts school children from across the state visit the zoo for free every year. Zoo staff are actively involved in conservation efforts to prevent extinction of endangered species.
Of most importance to those who live in the Grove Hall neighborhood that borders the zoo and in other areas around Franklin Park, the zoo plays a critical role in the health and vitality of our community, providing 150 full-time jobs and summer employment for 55 teens in partnership with the Boston Youth Fund. Friends of the Franklin Park Zoo raise funds to give free family passes to low-income neighborhood residents. The zoo is woven into the fabric of our park and our community. Cutting funds for the zoo would leave a gaping hole.
JORGE MARTINEZ
Executive director
Project R.I.G.H.T. Inc.
Roxbury
CHRISTINE POFF
Executive director
Franklin Park Coalition
Boston
