AMES, Iowa -- JC Penney’s Afterschool Fund has made $750,000 in 4-H Afterschool funds available nationwide.

The grant’s objective is to create slots for 750 children and youth in grades K-12 currently not enrolled in after-school programs, or on the verge of leaving after-school programs due to a lack of funds. Up to 750 mini-grants of $1,000 are available for the 2006-2007 school year.

In order to be eligible, applicants must live within 20 miles of a JC Penney store or distribution center and a 100 percent cash match is required from the applicant.

Applications are available from the National 4-H Council at http://www.fourhcouncil.edu/GrantsProgram.aspx.  The deadline for applications is June 30, 2006, by noon EST. Those who receive award will be notified the week of July 10.

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