Big Sky kidsLINK Summer Camp among programs that could be impacted
By Jen Clancey STAFF WRITER
On July 1, the federal government froze $6.8 billion in education funding, $1.4 billion of which was allocated for 21st Century Community Learning Centers, which provide before and afterschool care and camp programs for kids.
In a July 2 press release, Greater Gallatin United Way announced that its kidsLINK program, an afterschool and summer camp program with 10 locations across Gallatin and Park counties, could be impacted by the change in funds, which were scheduled to be released July 1 and are now on hold.
“The freeze on 21st CCLC funds threatens the long-term stability of services that are proven to improve educational outcomes, reduce crime, support mental health, and help build a stronger workforce,” the release stated.
More than 1,200 students in Gallatin and Park counties benefit from kidsLINK, and 9,100 kids across the state are in programs funded through the 21st CCLC, especially in low income, rural and tribal communities.
In the release, the nonprofit described the possibility of rural summer camp programs being scaled back due to the cut. GGUW’s kidsLINK Big Sky summer camp began in 2023, runs throughout the summer and is priced at $200 a week and offers scholarships for families in need.
Come fall, planning for afterschool programs are on pause, putting the program and related staff in limbo. Locally, kidsLINK operates an afterschool program at Ophir Elementary School, which aims to fill in child care gaps for three to five year olds in the area. The program costs $50 per week with tuition assistance available for families.
GGUW explained that potential loss of summer and before and afterschool child care results in struggles for families and local businesses, including workforce disruptions.
“These programs are essential. Not just for families, but for our local economy,” Kim Hall, GGUW president, stated in the release. “When working families lose access to child care, businesses lose reliable employees. It’s a ripple effect that impacts everyone.”
