Voices

Not all afterschool programs are government-subsidized

BELLOWS FALLS — RE: “After hours” [Aug. 8]:

I would just like to clarify that Meeting Waters YMCA's many state-licensed school age child care programs do not receive federal funding.

It is imperative that readers understand that your region's largest provider of state-licensed school-age child care depends on local support as part of its sustainable revenue mix.

These programs include Y-ASPIRE at Brattleboro's Academy, Green Street and Oak Grove schools, Guilford Central School, Dummerston School, Rockingham Central and Saxtons River School; Kindergarten ASPIRE in Brattleboro; Snow Days Program in Brattleboro; and Y Day Camp, serving kids from two dozen communities.

This year, more than 350 different children and their families will be served by these programs.

We depend on the generosity of local donors to supplement state child-care subsidy and fees for services.

We have a sustainable business model so that we can be here to serve the community as long as there is a need.

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