SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) — Syracuse has one of the highest child poverty rates in the nation, with about 41% of children living in poverty, according to U.S. Census data.
For many families, that means limited access to safe spaces, after-school activities and academic support outside of school.
A group of Syracuse University students runs an organization called Cuse Spot that helps address those challenges. The organization provides local children with a safe place to spend time and take part in positive activities after school.
Cuse Spot offers a range of programs, including:
- Arts and crafts workshops
- Homework help
- Opportunities for positive social interaction
Cuse Spot president and Syracuse University sophomore Zaiyma Mashkoor said the group focuses on giving children both structure and opportunities to have fun.
“For Halloween, we’re doing a haunted house, line dancing and things like bracelet making and art,” Mashkoor said.
The organization hosts after-school programs and community events designed to support and engage children in the Syracuse area.
Volunteers include students from a variety of academic majors who want to build stronger connections between the university and the surrounding community.
Syracuse University student Violet Longbons said the group’s work shows that meaningful community impact does not have to be complicated.
“I think to be impactful, it doesn’t need to be something super deep or perfect,” Longbons said. “It can just sometimes be fun activities and after-school things, which I think is just as important.”
Cuse Spot plans to host a Halloween event for children on Friday. The event will include face painting, a mummy-wrapping competition, dancing and other activities.