The following is an excerpt from an article originally published on PIX11.com

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NEW JERSEY (PIX11) — Hundreds of kids across New Jersey are at risk of losing their summer and after-school programs because of a massive pause in federal grant money.

On Monday, the U.S. Department of Education notified states that it was pausing fund distribution for the 21st Century grant program, starting July 1st.

The funding serves community-based organizations, like the Boys & Girls Clubs, that deliver critical programming for students and families.

Judith Stoddard, the Chief Programs Officer for the Boys & Girls Club of Paterson, said they are in danger of losing $575,000 in grant money.

“We have 15 staff members that we employ,” said Stoddard. “We have 200 families that depend on us for academic intervention, meals, and just a safe space.”

Across New Jersey, Boys & Girls Clubs stand to lose nearly $4 million in funding for local afterschool and summer programming, impacting 1,700 youth served by 10 different clubs.

“Our children receive individualized academic instruction from certified teachers,” said Stoddard. “They’re thriving. They’re blossoming.”

In Monmouth County, $400,000 in grant money is at stake.

“The 21st Century funding supports three school-based sights, 150 kids, and employs 21 people,” said Douglas Eagles, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County.

The programming provides a safe space for parents to leave their children during typically vulnerable hours.