Sampson County YMCA Seeks Funding to Provide Free Afterschool Programming at Sunset Avenue Elementary

The YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina is excited to announce its intent to submit an application for the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) grant for the 2025-2026 school year. This funding would provide free afterschool programing at Sunset Avenue Elementary School for students enrolled at Clinton City Schools. This funding opportunity, provided by the U.S. Department of Education, aims to support high-quality, out-of-school-time programming for students, particularly those who attend high-poverty and low-performing schools.

Through this grant, the Sampson County YMCA seeks to enhance academic enrichment opportunities, provide essential youth development programs, and foster family engagement initiatives to create a holistic and supportive environment for students beyond the school day. If awarded, the grant will allow the YMCA to expand its impact, offering structured programming focused on academic success, social-emotional growth, and healthy lifestyles.

"At the Sampson County YMCA we are committed to ensuring that all children have access to safe, engaging, and enriching experiences outside of the classroom," said John Adams, Executive Director of the Sampson County YMCA. "The 21st Century CCLC grant will enable us to strengthen our partnership with local schools and families, providing much-needed resources to help students thrive."

Community members, partners, and stakeholders are encouraged to provide input and support as the YMCA moves forward with the application process. If you have any questions or would like to be involved, please contact our Program Director Alyssa Fox at [email protected]

The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits, strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina, comprised of 3 membership facilities, 1 residential camp and 1 activity center, serves more than 30,000 men, women, and children to help nurture the potential of children and teens, improve our community’s health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. Deeply rooted in the community for 137 years, the YMCA of Southeastern NC has the long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but to deliver, lasting personal and social change.