Supporting the Goals and Ideals of "Lights on Afterschool!"

SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND IDEALS OF ``LIGHTS ON AFTERSCHOOL!'' -- (House of Representatives - September 27, 2005)

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. LARSEN of Washington. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of ``Lights on Afterschool!'', and House Joint Resolution 66, which recognizes the goals and ideals of ``Lights on Afterschool!''

``Lights on Afterschool!'' started in 2000, celebrating the importance of after-school programs, and it continues to grow 6 years later. This year's celebration is scheduled for October 20, and roughly 1 million Americans are expected to participate.

After-school programs play an important role in keeping many kids safe and engaged in positive activities. The hours between 3 and 6 p.m. on school days represent the peak times for juvenile crime. During those few hours after school, kids are most likely to experiment with drugs, alcohol and cigarettes.

Today, there are currently over 6 million students, kindergarten through grade 12 participating in after-school programs, and these children are growing and learning in a safe and healthy environment. Congress must protect this opportunity for kids. Congress must do more to give families and children who are not currently participating the chance to do so.

``Lights on Afterschool!'' reminds us all of our obligation to give children the resources they need to succeed in school and to succeed in the future. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

http://thomas.loc.gov