This Isn’t Security: It’s Sabotage of Our Schools and Families

Public Statement: Peace Economy Project Condemns Withholding of 21st CCLC Funds: A Blow to Children, Families, and Community Stability

The Peace Economy Project strongly condemns the Trump Administration’s decision to withhold FY25 funds for the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) program—funds that Saint Louis families and organizations have already been promised, planned for, and desperately need.

This action is not just a bureaucratic delay—it is a betrayal of trust. In Saint Louis, dozens of afterschool and summer learning programs rely on this funding to keep children safe, fed, and engaged during out-of-school hours. These programs are lifelines for working families who now face impossible choices: leave jobs or leave children unsupervised.

Withholding these funds undermines the well-being of our community and jeopardizes the long-term health of our local economy. When kids fall behind academically, when parents are forced out of work, and when youth are left without safe spaces to grow, the entire city suffers. Programs slated for cancellation or severe reduction include those offering STEM education, literacy support, conflict resolution training, and meals—tools that build resilience and opportunity, not dependence.

This is not an isolated act. It reflects a disturbing national trend: cutting education and community support while continuing to pour hundreds of billions of dollars into militarization. It is telling that while vital youth programs are being gutted, the Pentagon’s budget continues to balloon unchecked.

We believe that real national security starts with strong communities, not with stockpiled weapons. Investing in children is not optional—it is essential. We call on the administration to immediately release the appropriated FY25 funds and on Congress to reject any attempt to eliminate or defund 21st CCLC in FY26.

The Peace Economy Project urges citizens, lawmakers, and community organizations to speak out and act. Our future depends on it. Contact your representative today!