JCPenney Afterschool Fund Provides Mini-Grants to the Boys & Girls Clubs of San Antonio
San Antonio -- Nov. 9, 2006

The JCPenney Afterschool Fund is awarding mini-grants to the Boys & Girls Clubs of San Antonio in an effort to increase participation by San Antonio youth in worthwhile after-school programs. Recent studies show that 14.3 million children in the U.S. are unsupervised between the hours of 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. each day. These mini-grants, totaling $33,000, will provide access to safe, enriching and educational after-school programs for approximately 110 San Antonio children who might otherwise be at risk for destructive behavior.

Funds from the mini-grants will cover the expense of attending a Club, including staff supervision by full-time, trained youth development professionals; exposure to tried and proven programs; access to community service initiatives; transportation; snacks; and time spent in a safe "up-to-code," youth-centric building. Additionally, each mini-grant recipient will receive a $100 JCPenney gift care, courtesy of J.C. Penney Company, Inc., to help with the purchase of clothing and school supplies.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of America has received funding and support from the JCPenney Afterschool Fund for more than five years. High-quality after-school programs keep children safe and produce life-changing, lasting benefits, including healthier lifestyles, improved social skills and enhanced academic performance. In its continuing effort to ensure that every child in America has access to quality after-school programs, the JCPenney Afterschool Fund will give $2,000,576 to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America this year.

About the JCPenney Afterschool Fund
The JCPenney Afterschool Fund is a charitable organization committed to providing children with access to high-quality after-school programs. The Fund's contributions allow for the continuance and growth of after-school programs aimed at the academic, physical and social development of children throughout the U.S. The JCPenney Afterschool Fund also works to raise awareness of the benefits of after-school programming and is committed to ensuring that every child has access to the world of opportunities that awaits them after school.

About the Boys & Girls Clubs of San Antonio
Founded in 1939, the Boys & Girls Clubs of San Antonio serves more than 6,000 members annually at five branch locations and several satellite locations. The Clubs provide after school and summer program services that develop talents, values and skills in youth ages six-to-18 years old, paying particular attention to those who need these programs most. As a result of the Clubs programs, young people are inspired and enabled to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens. For more information, visit the Boys & Girls Clubs of San Antonio website at: www.bgcsatx.org.