© Can Stock Photo / ancientimages© Can Stock Photo / ancientimages
Sarnia

Ontario to invest $43.9M to continue after-school programs

The provincial government has announced a continued commitment to keeping children safe and occupied after school.

Queens Park will invest $43.9-million for three years as a continuation of the province's After School Program (ASP). The ASP supports some 13,000 K-12 students in 80 communities. Students are provided access to homework help, nutritious snacks, sports, and local arts and culture.

"Our government is proud to invest in programs that give hard-working parents access to fun, safe, and supervised activities for their children," said Ontario Minister of Sport Neil Lumsden. "By establishing three-year agreements, we are cutting red tape for our partners and creating more stability for providers and participants, helping ensure families continue to have access to the high-quality, active recreation programs they rely on."

Ontario began the ASP in 2009.

The province is currently working with 110 organizations, including municipalities, First Nations, and community-based non-profits. Each is required to create a plan that includes academic help, physical activity, and snacks.

Families interested in enrolling their children in the ASP can search for participating organizations to get information about requirements and services offered.

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