Is your child home alone?

In today's economy, parents are forced to work full time jobs and sometimes take on second jobs. Many times they still cannot afford care for their children after school and many children are home alone. Statistics show that juvenile violence increases during the after school and weekend hours. There are many after school programs one of which is Vancouver-Clark Parks & Recreation. There is a program at Firstenburg Community Center for youths K-5th approx. cost is $180-$200 a month. This program offers summer camp type activities. Another program called Kids First is a recreational activity program offered FREE, yes FREE, on-site to all children attending specific elementary schools and is offered on specific days. They also offer free nutritional snacks thanks to a grant by US Dept. of Agriculture. There are several other programs to build self-esteem, a sense of belonging, wanted and developing relationships with role models that enrich our children's lives. Developing these types healthy behaviors the chances that our children will pick up a drink or a drug is less likely.