The JCPenney Afterschool Grant for $10,000 was presented to the LeFrak City Youth and Adult Activities Association in support of the New Millennium Afterschool Program on Tuesday, February 15.
“We have a lot of very bright children at the program and we want to thank JCPenney for making such a great contribution to our after school program, which always goes beyond the call of duty,” said Wanda Mims-Cruz, assistant director at LeFrak City Youth Association.
In their effort to support afterschool programs in the community JCPenney have asked their customers to round up their purchases four times a year for two weeks.
“When we do an afterschool roundup the money really goes to the community,” said Melissa Ioanna, JCPenney store manager at Queens Center Mall. “JCPenney truly loves kids!”
Queens Borough President Helen Marshall was proud to attend the event and stated afterschool programs were essential for all children in the community.
“The children need these afterschool environments where they can flourish academically and socially,” said Marshall. “I am thankful that JCPenney is showing an interest in our community.”
The New Millennium Afterschool Program provides positive learning activities for the children of LeFrak City in Rego Park.
“I love the afterschool school program because after I am done with homework I get to go to the gym,” said seven-year-old Genesis Ortiz, of LeFrak City.
“Ten-thousand dollars is a lot and we were also fortunate to receive a $50 certificate from JCPenney that will help us buy school clothes for our children,” added Marlon Evans of LeFrak City.
Since 1999, the JCPenney Afterschool Fund has distributed more than $80 million to the afterschool cause.
“The money JCPenney has donated will allow our after school program to buy more supplies, which will help us to learn better,” said 11-year-old Bukky Okolo, of LeFrak City.
