WASHINGTON, DC – The Congressional Afterschool Caucus and afterschool programs across the country celebrated “Lights On Afterschool!” today.  These events highlighted the importance of quality afterschool programs. 

“Study after study has confirmed that afterschool programs help students learn while ensuring that children are safe and productive after the regular school day ends,” said Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-Westchester/Rockland).  “’Lights On Afterschool!’ gives educators and parents the opportunity to show their communities the good work being done in afterschool programs.”

A study by the Afterschool Alliance found that more than 14 million American children are alone after the school bell rings at 3:00 pm.  This is especially troubling because the hours between 3:00 and 6:00pm can be a dangerous period for children spending time alone.  Kids are most likely to experiment with risky behavior when parents or other adults are not able to make sure their children are participating in safe and responsible activities.

Afterschool programs are the solution to this problem for many families.  They provide a secure and supervised environment for kids and peace of mind for their parents.  In fact, parents of more than 15 million youngsters said their kids would participate in an afterschool program if one was available in their community. 

Last month, Congresswoman Lowey, a co-chair and founder of the Congressional Afterschool Caucus, introduced a resolution calling on Congress to support “Lights On Afterschool!.”  This legislation passed unanimously in the House of Representatives.

“I’m proud to take part in events celebrating afterschool programs today, but we need to support afterschool programs every day,” said Lowey.  “I support increasing federal funding for these programs and working with local officials and educators in Westchester and Rockland Counties to expand the reach of our afterschool programs.  We cannot let afterschool programs become an afterthought.”

Congresswoman Lowey has long promoted legislation and funding to advance afterschool programs.  In 1996, Lowey helped create the 21st Century Afterschool Program, the first ever federal afterschool program.  As a member of the Appropriations Committee, she has also secured millions for such programs in the 18th Congressional District, including more than $2.5 million in fiscal year 2005 alone.