With summer vacation over and children back in school this week, the Atmore Area YMCA kicked off its after school care program.

Twenty-five children reported to the YMCA for the first day of the after school program with more expected once Escambia Academy begins its school year today.

Ross Terry, manager of the Atmore Area YMCA, said the after school program is a great place for children to be if their parents are unable to pick them up after school bells ring each afternoon.

“If you have to work until 5 p.m. our program is great because we are open until 5:30 p.m.,” Terry said. “Its affordable, and we provide the children with a healthy snack and keep them active. We also provide homework time for them to do their school work and receive help if they need it.”

The cost of the after school program for members is $30 per week for the first child and $25 per week for each additional child. Nonmembers must pay $40 per week per child.

Transportation is provided to the YMCA from Rachel Patterson Elementary School, A.C. Moore Elementary School, Escambia County Middle School and Escambia Academy (ECATS).