K.E.E.P., Inc. receives after-school funding

SPARTA — K.E.E.P., Inc. (Kids Educational Enrichment Program) is celebrating the award of over $250,000 from New Jersey After 3 to fund an after-school program for 200 children at the Walnut Ridge School in Vernon Township. This grant is the first of its kind in Sussex County and represents a three-way partnership between K.E.E.P., Inc., the Vernon Township School District, and New Jersey After 3. As a result of this award, 200 children attending the Walnut Ridge School will receive free after-school programs that include art, intramural sports, literacy activities, educational enrichment games, community service activities, rhythm and dance and a host of other activities. Tricia A. Smith, C.E.O. of K.E.E.P., Inc. stated, “Quality programming of this nature, coupled with the strength of our partnerships, will afford Vernon families opportunities like none other.” “I am delighted to welcome the New Jersey After 3 Program to our Walnut Ridge Primary School,” said Anthony J. Macerino, Superintendent of the Vernon Township School District. “Quality, safe child care is not easy to come by and New Jersey After Three Walnut Ridge K.E.E.P. provides the security that parents need to be assured of as well as a ‘whole program’ for the developing child after school.” Registration is already underway. Anyone interested in obtaining registration forms or further information should contact the K.E.E.P., Inc. office at 729-6474.