MPS launches new MPS C.A.R.E.S. initiative to give young people a safe place

Milwaukee Public Schools launched a new initiative today to provide safe places for young people to go and additional access to wellness resources for youth and families.

MPS C.A.R.E.S., Community and Recreation Engaging Students, will provide expanded programming at North Division, South Division and Washington High Schools, including but not limited to Twilight Centers, Midnight Sports Leagues and Wellness Days. The district is working with community partners, including the City of Milwaukee Office of Violence Prevention, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee and Safe & Sound, to identify and implement additional programming.

“We have so many young people in our community who need safe places to go that have positive activities and resources,” said MPS Superintendent Darienne Driver. “We want to work with our partners to meet the needs of Milwaukee’s children and families.”

Twilight Centers will open Oct. 31, and will provide programming and services on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6 until 9 p.m. and on Saturdays from 6 until 10 p.m. The initial Twilight Centers will be at North Division, South Division and Washington High Schools, and the goal is to open four additional Twilight Centers within the next three months. The Centers are open to any child ages 12-18 years old. Activities will include but not be limited to game rooms, open gym, roller skating, movie nights and youth enrichment activities.

Midnight Sports Leagues will begin in 2017. Leagues will play at both north and south side locations. The leagues are open to any adult ages 18-24 years old.

Wellness Days will be each week at different sites around the city and will include wellness programming and resources. There is no charge to attend, and the activities are open to the public.

For more information about MPS C.A.R.E.S., including schedules and registration information, visit mpsmke.com/cares.