Weatherly's Zions Lutheran Church hosted an open house for the "Lights On After School Program," which is held there so that the public could come and see what the program has to offer

The program at the church, which is located on Third and Fell streets in Weatherly, addresses the physical, emotional, and social needs of our children.According to program director Virginia Houser, "we cater to all children from kindergarten through 13 years of age and we are here before school for those who need to get on the bus and then we are here after school 'til 6 o'clock."The children play together and learn together with computers and activities and homework and play outside in a nice back yard when the weather is nice."According to the After School Alliance, more than 28 million children in the United States have parents who work outside the home and more than 15 million children are on their own after school. Zions Lutheran After School Program, with hours from 2:30 to 6 p.m., will offer a safe and nurturing environment to children in kindergarten through sixth grades who would otherwise be home alone with little or no supervision.Upon arrival, children will receive a snack and begin homework with the assistance of staff and will have use of a computer lab.After homework, there will be time for crafts, games, stories, walks, and trips to Eurana Park which will all take place under the supervision of qualified staff.At days end, the children will be signed out by a parent or guardian and dismissed to their care.At the present time, there are nine children in the program but the church's program has the capacity to serve a total of 59 children.Anyone who would like more information about the program can call (570) 427-2331 and ask for Ginny or leave a message.