TRAVERSE CITY — After school programs in 6 Northern Michigan counties are now in limbo.
They are waiting to see if the government will release funds through states Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant. Also known as Title 4 Part B.
Last week the federal government withheld more than $5 million in Michigan funds through grants for no specific reason. The government said the money is “under review.”
Local programs like Traverse City’s SEED Ecology and Education Centers had to decide if after school programs would continue to run through summer.
“We’re not sure if we’ll be reimbursed for after school programing or not, and we’re in the middle of summer camp right now,’ said SEED executive director Sarna Salzman.
Part of the summer camp includes learning resources to keep kids prepared for the upcoming school year, field trips to local parks and free meals for all participants.
Salzman said it was a tough call to decide if current programs should continue knowing the money could be permanently stopped.
After an emergency meeting with the board of directors they made the decision to continue the summer programs more than 500 Northern Michigan kids rely on.
“We did not want to leave those kids and their families hanging in the middle of their summer season.”
Rachel hardly is a single parent and has kids that participate in the summer camp programs. She said without these programs she will be faced with a hardship.
“I love SEEDS. They seem to really care about my kids, and they take them on nature walks and provide learning opportunities. My kids are having a great time and it’s been really helpful. I am really worried about what I’m going to do.”
With little information to go on as to when the review will be completed, Salzman said they are looking for donations to help support the program.