NASHUA – A new school year is filled with potential-a chance to start new routines and habits, build new friendships and discover new possibilities and interests. It’s an exciting time for many kids, however-at the end of the school day, 11.3 million kids head to homes where they are unsupervised from 3-6 p.m., according to Afterschool Alliance, a nonprofit public awareness organization. As children transition from summer to fall, the YMCA of Greater Nashua is offering programs to school-aged children throughout Nashua and Merrimack to keep youth active, busy and engaged during out-of-school time.

Through a well-rounded approach to youth development, the Y’s programs offer activities in a caring and safe environment during the critical hours after school. Whether through sports, mentorship, or academic support, the Y nurture the potential of youth throughout the school year.

“One in five children do not have someone to care for them after school, an essential time to help increase children’s success in school,” said Elizabeth Covino, director of community relations for the YMCA of Greater Nashua. “Afterschool at the Y is an opportunity for families to ensure their kids are receiving additional support, continued learning and a chance to participate in meaningful activities that can inspire children’s motivations and abilities to succeed.”

The Y is a leading nonprofit committed to nurturing the potential of every child and teen, supporting their social-emotional, cognitive and physical development from birth to career. In the Nashua YMCA and Merrimack YMCA’s afterschool program, youth receive homework assistance, and can also explore arts and humanities, sports, music and swimming. Healthy snacks are provided daily, as well as daily physical activity.

Financial assistance is available to those in need, to ensure every child and teen has the opportunity to learn and grow at the Y.

For more information about the Nashua YMCA’s afterschool program, please contact Sarah Sutherland at 882-2011 or ssutherland@nmymca.org. For information about the Merrimack YMCA’s afterschool program, please contact Randy Menken at 689-2443 or rmenken@nmymca.org.