21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) is the only federal funding stream dedicated solely to before-school, afterschool, and summer learning programs. This funding goes directly to states, who distribute to local schools, community-based organizations, park and recreation departments, and more to provide high-quality, locally-driven programming for students. Currently, more than 10,000 21st CCLC programs serve nearly 1.4 million students and their families across every state – and demand for these programs far exceeds the supply.

For more than 25 years, 21st CCLCs have helped students – many of whom are from underserved communities – learn and grow while allowing their parents to work and contribute to local economies. Students enrolled in 21st CCLC programs are more engaged in learning, have improved GPAs and test scores, and decreased instances of chronic absenteeism and in-school suspensions. 

The enacted FY26 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill included $1.329 billion for 21st CCLC—level with FY25 enacted. Ask your Member of Congress to at least maintain enacted funding levels for 21st CCLC in FY27.