09-13-2006 City Awards $158,000 in Grants to South Bend After School Programs

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d�SQU Tt; 4 � Cs � � rF.acR ,a y R Y86� Office of the Mayor NEWS RELEASE Wednesday,September 13,2006 Contact: Pamela C. Meyer, Director Division of Community Development, 235-5845 Judy Smith, Community Development, 235-5846 City Awards $158,000 in Grants to South Bend After School Programs Mayor Stephen J. Luecke has announced that twenty-one grants totaling $158,000 have been awarded to various After School programs. "The City of South Bend is committed to supporting After School Programs that give students positive opportunities to socialize, explore new hobbies, and get extra help with homework," said Mayor Luecke. Youth are able to work with tutors as well as immerse themselves in arts and crafts, athletics, computers, and healthy refreshments instead of returning to empty homes or unsupervised activities. The After School Programs bolster the Safe City Initiative, as they provide a safe haven for children and an alternative or diversion from inappropriate behavior including selling or using drugs, or getting caught up in gang violence. "Many After School Programs are credited by teachers and parents for improvement in schoolwork, behavior, attitudes, and confidence of children attending the After School Program", said Lynn Coleman,Mayor's Assistant. Grants for the After School Program have become progressively more competitive as educators and parents seek safe and educational alternatives for youth during after school hours. Grants are awarded on a competitive basis and eligible applicants include public, private and parochial schools, as well as non-profit organizations including faith-based organizations. Annually, the After School Program provides activities and safety for approximately 1,550 children. A sampling of the programs offered through the City of South Bend After School Program follows: - more-