SHAMOKIN - The Lower Anthracite Region United Way (LARUW) has joined the Greater Susquehanna Valley chapter in placing discretionary funding for the Susquehanna Council of Boy Scouts of America on hold while the national Boy Scouts of America (BSA) concludes its review of a policy of "not granting membership to open or avowed homosexuals."
"This decision is based on the principle that the Lower Anthracite Region United Way does not condone discrimination within our community," reads a statement issued by the board of directors this week.
The board considered taking the stance after news of the Susquehanna Valley chapter's decision three weeks ago and recently voted on the issue, with unanimous results.
"LARUW truly hopes that the Boy Scouts of America will change their policies and allow homosexuals within their organization. The funds that were designated to the Boy Scouts of America will be frozen until a final decision has been made."
If the Boy Scouts continue to deny the entry of homosexuals, a meeting will be held to discuss further action, according to the board's statement.
LARUW designated $6,500 to the Susquehanna Council of Boy Scouts of America in 2011-12.
Susquehanna Council Scouts executive Jon Brennan had said at the time of the Susquehanna Valley United Way's "pause" in funding that the council will adhere to whatever decision is made by BSA at its annual meeting in May. He said there hadn't been an outpouring from the local community one way or another on the homosexual policy.
BSA is accepting public input via e-mail at feedback@scouting.org.