National Statistics

• The number of youth who are "disconnected" -- neither working nor attending school -- increased 19% between 2000 and 2003. (Annie E. Casey Foundation, 2004 Kids Count Data Book)

• The parents of more than 28 million school-aged children work outside the home. (U.S. Department of Labor)

• At least 7 million, and as many as 15 million, "latchkey children" go to an empty house on any given afternoon. (U.S. Census Bureau, Urban Institute estimate, 2000)

• Families living in poverty do not have enough money to meet their basic needs, let alone provide additional development opportunities for their children. To find out more, please set aside two minutes to take the Poverty Tour. (Poverty USA, 2004)

Camp Fire USA's Response

• Offer programs at no cost to low-income families, removing the cost barrier that prevents many from attending other programs.

• Operate programs from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. during the school year, with extended hours during the summer months.

• Provide programs in communities that suffer from poverty and crime.

• Enable children to receive a nutritious snack in a structured environment that is in the same area where they live or go to school.

Learn More About

• Overall Impact of After-school Programs on Children and Youth

• Why Children and Youth Need Camp Fire USA's After-School Programs

• Why Dallas Needs Quality After-School Programs