According to Patricia Monson, Department of Social Services' Child Care Services division director, the grants will assist communities or school districts in the development of programs that provide safe environments and enrichment activities for children in kindergarten through age 12 before and after school, as well as during the summer months.
"Out-of-school time programs play an important role in helping families know their school-age children are safe once the school day ends," Monson said. "Also, studies have shown that out-of-school time programs make a difference in the lives of the students by helping them learn socialization skills and improve academically."
Funding priority will be given to applicants that show strong community support, are located in school facilities (or show evidence of strong school collaboration), offer organized enrichment activities, and show potential for sustainability, Monson said. The grants are made available through federal Child Care Development funds.
To be considered for funding for the upcoming summer and school year, interested applicants must request grant application materials by Friday, Dec. 2. Grant applications must be postmarked no later than Feb. 3, 2006.
For more information on OST programs or to request application materials, contact Rosemary Hayward, Child Care Services, at 1-800-227-3020 ext. 6432.
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