This publication is part of a series of tools and resources on financing and sustaining youth programming. These tools and resources are intended to help policymakers, program developers, and community leaders develop innovative strategies for implementing, financing, and sustaining effective programs and policies. This guide outlines strategies…

Examines current debate and advocacy efforts to protect Head Start funding in light of congressional budget reductions. Presents appropriation and enrollment figures, and current proposed funding levels. Describes new directions in Head Start, including Early Start, collaboration efforts with public schools, and full day care. Highlights the…

The After-School Alliance assessed the impact of a $400 million cut to the 21st Century Community Learning Centers program proposed by President George W. Bush for fiscal year 2004. The assessment determined the effect the proposed cut would have on the availability of after-school programs in each of the 50 states and the District of Columbia.…

The 1996 welfare reform legislation replaced the Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) program with a new Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) block grant. This new program has a fixed funding level that is not altered by inflation or economic cycles or caseload size. Individual states' shares are based on the amount they…