Use your Voice! FY2026 Budget still to be Determined!
Last week, the House Appropriations Labor, Health, and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies (LHHS) Subcommittee advanced its FY26 spending bill with 11 members in favor and 7 opposed. Similar to the bipartisan-supported (27-3) Senate Appropriation Committee’s LHHS-E spending bill from last month, it maintains level funding ($1.329 billion) to 21st CCLC.
The House bill now awaits imminent markups by the full Appropriations Committee to then advance to the House floor for a full vote before FY26 begins on October 1. The Senate bill awaits a vote by the full Senate.
While this is promising news, advocacy from the field is still necessary for this to become a reality. The Afterschool Alliance is keeping the field informed with updates as they happen.
So let’s use our voice again! You and your OST colleagues across the nation were instrumental in unfreezing the 21st CCLC funds in late July; more than 100,000 emails were sent to Congress, Governors, and other decision makers demanding this funding to support safe, inspiring spaces for youth to thrive. VPOST thanks you for your tireless efforts in promoting youth and family success!
Click the button below to contact your members of Congress to preserve this funding.
Quick Guides on Advocacy for
Out-of-School Time
Out-of-School Time (OST) Programs are a place for youth to discover their passion and make connections with adults and peers alike. Who better to tell decision makers the power of OST programs? Speaking truth to power can seem intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be! These quick guides will help you craft and share your unique OST Story.
VPOST Board of Directors Member, Mark Emery, Speaks at the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Meeting
In Spring 2025, Fairfax County Middle School Afterschool and Summer Learning programs were being threatened. Through the efforts of action alerts, e-blasts, social media campaigns, and speaking at local town-halls, funding for OST programs in Fairfax County was restored. Take a moment to watch the emotional and impactful plea from VPOST Board member, Mark Emery, at the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors meeting.
