Chimera delivers funding for Hertel North Park Youth Baseball League

$10,000 of community benefits funding awarded to Shoshone Park Baseball & Softball

On Tuesday, Aug. 2, Erie County Legislator Lisa M. Chimera met with coaches and young players to present a check in the amount of $10,000 to the Hertel North Park Youth Baseball League (HNPYBL).

House players from both the baseball and softball programs participated in a league playoff, with many excited family members there to cheer them on. The not-for-profit league, playing out of Shoshone Park, was established in 1954 – making it one of the longest-running in all of Erie County.

“Hertel North Park Baseball and Softball has such a great tradition in District 3, and I am proud to have such a great youth sports program here in our community,” Chimera said. “Baseball truly is America’s pastime, and a great outlet for our children during the summer months. HNPYBL has provided opportunities for so many families over the years, and it is so great to see our young athletes rewarded for all of their hard work and dedication this season.”

Each year, the league welcomes 1,200 players of various skill levels, with no child turned away due to financial hardship.

"We are very appreciative to have received this grant from Lisa Chimera and Erie County. It is generous gifts such as this that allow our league to keep costs low for families that want to play baseball and softball in the city," said John Hornung, president of the Hertel North Park Youth Baseball League. "Clearly, Ms. Chimera understands the importance of providing opportunities for youth athletics within the city."

During the 2022 season, Chimera also sponsored a HNPYBL T-ball team.