Why Afterschool Programs?
According to the survey of afterschool program staff conducted by the Afterschool Alliance, many afterschool programs are unable to meet the demand in their communities. Respondents to the web-based survey say budget cuts and stagnation are taking a toll on afterschool programs, and the youth and families they serve. Providers report that future funding is insecure, and many have already been forced to make painful cuts to their programs. “The results of this survey are sobering, and underscore the consequences of failing to fund the afterschool programs our children so urgently need,” said Afterschool Alliance Executive Director Jodi Grant. Afterschool programs keep kids safe, inspire them to learn, and help working families but we don’t have nearly enough quality afterschool programs in the United States today. Changing that should be a high priority for lawmakers, corporations, foundations, and the public.” For more information, see the reference Afterschool Fact Sheet.
