FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
GRANT AWARD MARKS JCPENNEY AFTERSCHOOL FUND'S COMMITMENT TO CHILDREN
CHICAGO, October 24, 2006 - The JCPenney Afterschool Fund has awarded grants totaling $3 million to YMCAs across the country to help more children than ever before participate in safe, enriching afterschool programs, YMCA of the USA announced today. Studies show that between the hours of 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. each day youth are at greater risk of involvement in crime, drug abuse and other destructive behaviors. High-quality afterschool programs keep children safe and help to produce life-changing, lasting benefits, including healthier lifestyles, improved social skills and enhanced academic performance.
Grants of $10,830 or more were awarded to 277 local YMCAs to offer working families a wholesome, safe place for their children to learn new activities, make new friends and receive help with their schoolwork through YMCA afterschool programs. The grants are specifically targeted to help YMCAs provide financial assistance to youth who are not currently participating in an afterschool program because their families lack the necessary financial resources, or those who are currently participating in the program but who are at risk of leaving due to lack of funds.
In addition to receiving the JCPenney Afterschool Fund grant, YMCA of the USA also has received over 9,000 gift cards from the J.C. Penney Corporation. These gift cards are being given to the children receiving financial aid from the JCPenney Afterschool Fund grant to help with the purchase of school clothing and supplies. In total, gifts from both entities exceed $3.45 million.
The nation’s YMCAs have been engaging children in safe, quality afterschool programs that complement and supplement children’s in-school learning for more than 50 years. Today with more than 9,000 afterschool programs across the country, the nation’s YMCAs are a leading resource for parents looking to find meaningful and fun afternoon activities for their children. Most YMCA afterschool programs include elements that promote artistry, social skill development, emotional development, nutrition and physical activity, character development, sports and service-learning.
“The YMCA is very grateful for the generous support of the JCPenney Afterschool Fund,” said Neil Nicoll, president and CEO of YMCA of the USA. “Children are our most valuable resource, and with the help of the JCPenney Afterschool Fund, we are reducing the number of unserved youth, ensuring that students of all backgrounds and income levels are able to benefit from quality afterschool programs. We also thank JCPenney for providing students across the country access to needed clothing and supplies for the new school year.”
ABOUT THE JCPENNEY AFTERSCHOOL FUND: The JCPenney Afterschool Fund is a charitable organization committed to providing children with access to high-quality afterschool programs. The Fund’s contributions allow for the continuance and growth of afterschool programs aimed at the academic, physical and social development of children throughout the U.S. The JCPenney Afterschool Fund also works to raise awareness of the benefits of afterschool programming, and is committed to ensuring that every child has access to the world of opportunities that awaits them after school. For more information, visit www.jcpenneyafterschool.org.
ABOUT YMCAs: The nation’s 2,617 YMCAs serve more than 20.2 million people each year, including 9.5 million children, uniting men, women and children of all ages, faiths, backgrounds, abilities and income levels. From urban areas to small towns, YMCAs are a place for people to belong, serving America’s children, families and communities for more than 150 years by “building healthy spirit, mind and body for all.” Visit www.ymca.net to find your local YMCA.
CONTACTS
Diane Hurles, Donor Relations Manager
YMCA of the USA
312-419-8374
cell 312-758-6397
diane.hurles@ymca.net
Julie Berkhouse, Vice President
JCPenney Afterschool Fund
972-431-4183
jberkhou@jcpenney.com