To the editor:

I am a senior at Morse High School, and I have recently become an advocate for the Bath Youth Meetinghouse and Skate Park.

“The Park” has been torn down due to structural damage, and the Bath Recreation Department is fighting to find a new home.

The reason I feel so strongly about this is because every day when I would go in and I would see everyone, I was thrilled. The kids always looked like they were having the time of their lives.

This was more than just a a place to skate. It was a place where the kids felt comfortable about being themselves, a place where you can find someone to look up to or talk to about whatever — a place you could call home, find family and friends.

The door was open for anyone and everyone who wanted to come inside. There are kids at The Park who I thought I would never have a relationship with.

Without this establishment, these kids would have had nowhere safe to go. Some of their parents work multiple jobs, and others just need somewhere else to go other than home.

At The Park, we are taught to persevere whether it’s in school or landing a new skateboard or BMX trick.

These kids that I have met over the past couple of months spent every day at The Park.

I want these kids to feel like they’re wanted. I want these kids to have a home.

Heather Hook

West Bath