Michigan After-School Partnership Announces $57 Million for Afterschool Programs

KALAMAZOO, Mich. — Every child should have access to after-school programs, and that’s the message that brought together several community leaders and organizations Friday morning.

The Michigan After-School Partnership (MASP) has announced a new statewide initiative: All In Michigan.

“I think the benefit of after-school programs is that continued engagement and just challenging their minds and imaginations,” Kalamazoo parent Derek Miller told FOX 17.

He has a 4-year-old and an 8-year-old, and remembers how his oldest thrived in after-school programs last year. “He’s more involved and he likes to come home and teach us what he’s learned,” he said, adding that he hopes to see his son participate again this year. “It’s good to see that light go on in his mind.”

This is exactly what MASP wants to see for every child.

“We advocate for all youth in the state of Michigan to have equitable access to before, after school and summer programs,” said Meg Blinkiewicz, director of network engagement for MASP.

According to Blinkiewicz, for every child who wants to participate in after-school programs, four cannot because of access issues.

On Friday, MASP announced it had secured $75 million in state funding for after-school and summer programs, which will increase access for 750,000 young people currently on waitlists.

“Young people who regularly participate in quality afterschool and summer programs have better school attendance, better school behavior and better academic performance,” Blinkiewicz told FOX 17.

This funding not only helps make afterschool programs accessible, but also helps ensure high-quality youth programs across the state. “It also helps families engage in the economy,” Blinkiewicz added. “When they know their child is participating in a high-quality afterschool and summer program, it allows them to fully participate in the economy.”

Of the $75 million MASP received, $57 million will be earmarked for youth programs, creating more opportunities for Michigan children. For grant opportunities, click here.

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