White Plains, NY — On Monday, the Westchester County Board of Legislators approved $130,000 in new County funding for long-running programs in Mount Vernon that provide after-school programs, a summer camp, and science and technology training to hundreds of at-risk young people every year.

The money supports three programs run by the Mount Vernon Youth Bureau as part of its Safe Haven programs, which offer alternative and safe places for children ages 6 to 12, and provide academic assistance and social support.

The Safe Haven After-School Drop In Service is a "cradle to college" program that provides academic support in English and math at the city's Grimes and Rebecca Turner Elementary Schools, preparing students for middle and high school.

The Safe Haven Summer Program runs a camp that provides a fun and safe recreation environment for young people during the months when school is out.

The Safe Have Saturday STEAM Academy encourages young students in grades 5 through 8 to explore the fields of science, technology, engineering, art and math.

Legislator Lyndon Williams (D - Mount Vernon) said, "Over the years, thousands of young people in Mount Vernon have had safe places to go and have obtained crucial academic encouragement and important life skills from the Safe Haven and other Youth Bureau programs. I'm proud that the County is able to continue to support these programs.  They help build a firm footing under our next generation that benefits not just these young men and women, but our entire community for years to come."

Legislator David Tubiolo (R - Yonkers, Mount Vernon) said, "The funding we've secured and helped deliver will keep around 250 young people at risk out of harm’s way this year, and give them the life skills necessary to succeed in a safe and welcoming environment."