Detroit mayor announces $2.2M city investment in 7 new after-school sites

September 10, 2026

Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield announced $2. 2 million in city funding to expand the GOAL Line Detroit after-school program by adding seven new locations throughout the city. The expansion will extend free programming and transportation to approximately 1,000 additional K-8 students, bringing total enrollment to around 3,700 children across 40 sites.

Who is affected

Approximately 1,000 additional K-8 students in Detroit who will gain access to the program
Current 2,700+ students already enrolled in GOAL Line Detroit
Working parents in Detroit, particularly those with multiple jobs or inflexible schedules
Families across all seven City Council districts, especially in areas previously lacking affordable after-school options
Detroit Public Schools Community District students and families

What action is being taken

Seven new GOAL Line Detroit after-school sites are opening across the city this school year
The city is providing $2.2 million in funding for the expansion
Free transportation is being provided for K-8 students from city schools to the new sites
GOAL Line is offering after-school programming at four additional DPSCD elementary-middle schools

Why it matters

This expansion addresses a critical need for affordable, quality after-school care in Detroit and southeast Michigan, where families have historically lacked access to such programs. The initiative supports working parents who often juggle multiple jobs and struggle with transportation, allowing them to complete their workdays knowing their children are safe and productively engaged. Beyond childcare, out-of-school programs provide documented benefits including improved school attendance, better academic performance, and enhanced student behavior, helping address educational equity gaps in the city.

What's next

Mayor Sheffield stated this expansion is a first step toward her goal of having an after-school program within 2 miles of every Detroit school.

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com