TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) - For successful students, the learning doesn’t end when the bell rings.

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, after-school programs help kids perform better in school and develop important academic and social skills.

But after-school care in southern Arizona can easily cost more than $300 per week. Annually, that’s more than 20% of the median salary in Tucson.

That’s why the Salvation Army of Tucson is offering a free program every Wednesday after school. It’s called the Troops program and includes homework help, games, and dinner. Salvation Army leaders said there are still spots open.

“You just don’t know what’s going on in a kid’s life,” said Lieutenant John Mercer, who attributes much of his personal growth to joining t

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