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As we have expanded iKids U over the last decade, the need for quality after-school programming for vulnerable families has become increasingly apparent. We created iKids Care to help more children have quality after-school experiences while their parents work to provide for them. iKids Care is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides tuition assistance for children to attend safe and enriching after-school programs that inspire learning while helping families in need.
MISSION
iKids Care supports the academic and emotional development of students in need by offering them scholarships to attend enriching after-school programs.
VISION
We believe that when children have the opportunity to spend the after-school hours in an engaging, fun and safe environment, the entire family benefits. High quality after-school programs have positive effects on youth academic performance and classroom behavior, while also providing peace of mind for parents at work, managing health problems or addressing other life stresses. By providing scholarships to make excellent after-school programs more accessible for children in need, it is our hope that more families will feel supported and stable and will be able to thrive.
The need for quality after-school programs that enrich the lives of elementary-age children is soaring. Working parents need trustworthy and convenient programs that nurture and protect their children during after-school hours. And you can help.
Your generosity can provide a scholarship that will make a difference in the life of a child by providing safe and engaging after-school care.
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Texas Students Need Your Help
Keep Kids Safe • Inspire Learning • Help Working Families
Evidence-based research demonstrates that high quality after-school programs change the lives of children through improved academic performance, self-esteem and healthy habits. When children have the opportunity to make connections with caring adults, develop relationships with their peers, explore what interests them, get homework help and participate in physical activities, they are engaged during the hours when juvenile crime peaks, which is from 2PM-6PM.
According to Afterschool Alliance, more than 19 million students are waiting to get into an after-school program. There is only one federal funding source, a grant called 21st Century Community Learning Center, which serves 1.7 million children. Demand is so high that 2 out of every 3 applications cannot be funded.
69% of parents say after-school helps them keep their jobs
TEXAS STUDENTS NEED CARE AND SUPERVISION AFTER SCHOOL
1,519,900 are waiting for an available program
935,057 are alone and unsupervised after school
TEXAS PARENTS STRONGLY SUPPORT AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS
62% say after-school programs excite kids about learning
68% say after-school programs reduce the likelihood that kids will engage in risky behavior
Scholarship Opportunities
Do you need financial assistance with after-school programming for your child? iKids offers tuition assistance for a variety of after-school programs that meet the needs of your family. Explore our application process to see if you qualify for a scholarship.
“iKids Care has been a blessing to my family, it has allowed me to keep my job and maintain my working hours so that I can provide for my family.”
-iKids Care Parent
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Sources
Afterschool Alliance, Afterschool in Texas (2019), afterschoolalliance.org/policyStateFacts.cfm?state=TX
Council for a Strong America, From Risk to Opportunity: Afterschool Programs Keep Kids Safe (2019),
strongnation.org/articles/930-from-risk-to-opportunity-afterschool-programs-keep-kids-safe
Youth.gov, youth.gov/youth-topics/afterschool-programs
