Jersey Shore Business Journal

JCPenney customers aid 4-H through giving

December 02, 2009

RIO GRANDE -- Thanks to funds raised through a recent “Round-Up” program at the JCPenney in Rio Grande, and an upcoming Round-Up campaign to be held Dec. 4-13, local children in need will continue to have access to after-school programming through the Cape May County 4-H Youth Development Program, the store’s JCPenney After-school Fund partner.

The Earth Force 4-H After-school Club at Lower Cape May Regional High School, for example, received funds to purchase supplies for their environmental projects and for a club banner to hang in the Lockwood 4-H Youth Center on the 4-H fairgrounds in Cape May Court House. “We are starting our second year as an after-school club, and we wanted a club banner to hang beside those of all the other clubs in Cape May County,” commented Club Leader and Teacher Karren Barr. “We are very thankful to JCPenney and all their generous customers for their support.”

From Oct. 16-25, JCPenney customers were invited to “round-up” their JCPenney purchases to the nearest whole dollar and donate the difference to local after-school programs that provide at-risk children access to life-enriching activities that inspire children to be smart, strong and socially responsible.

“With the $244 raised from the Rio Grande JCPenney’s recent ‘Round-Up’ program, even more children can benefit from 4-H’s after-school programs,” said 4-H agent B.J. Webersinn. “We appreciate JCPenney’s support as we work towards our goal of providing high-quality after-school programs that provide academic, physical and social development for children in Cape May County.” Nearly $500 has been raised in the three round-ups held so far this year with one additional round-up to go in December, from the 4th through the 13th.

According to Rio Grande Store Manager Scott Franklin, “The results from JCPenney’s ‘America After 3PM’ survey show that 14 percent of children in New Jersey access after-school programs – a higher figure than ever before. However, we know we need to do more to keep up with the rising demand of after-school programs locally. We look forward to continuing our strong, long term commitment to this issue and appreciate our customers for their support of this worthy cause.”

For more information about 4-H after-school programs, contact Linda Horner, 4-H Program Associate, at 465-5115, ext. 606.