For the fifth year, MasterCard has once again generously awarded a $10,000 grant to Cardinal McCloskey Services to support the ASPIRE (Academic Support, Personalized Intervention, Remedial Education) Program for Westchester's abused children residing at Hayden House.

Located in Ossining, Hayden House is Cardinal McCloskey's emergency "safe house" residence for abused and neglected children from Westchester County. While in residence, children receive diagnostic, therapeutic, educational and intervention services to initiate the process of recovering from abuse.

Launched in January 2002, ASPIRE is a computer enhanced after-school program that provides remedial, interdisciplinary instruction for children who reside at Cardinal McCloskey's Hayden House and attend the on-site Cardinal McCloskey School.

Assessment scores upon arrival at Hayden indicate that over 75% of the children are anywhere from three to five grade levels behind, and are at an exceptionally high risk of dropping out of school. Understandably, the children have a diminished interest in their education. The ASPIRE Program draws on the students' fascination with computers, using interactive software and tutorials to stimulate their academic interests and to make learning a more customized, interactive experience. Many students have been able to demonstrate grade appropriate academic ability in only a matter of months.

According to Jennifer Fedele, Principal of the Cardinal McCloskey School, "Statistics have proven year after year that the ASPIRE Program remains key in preventing academic failure for the students at the Cardinal McCloskey School. The program provides students with the opportunity to obtain important reading, mathematics and computer skills in a supportive learning environment."

MasterCard representative Ed McCraw, Vice President - Corporate Philanthropy said, "MasterCard is committed to promoting youth education and technology as the major tool for economic self sufficiency to help build strong, sustainable communities. We are proud to partner with organizations that are dedicated to providing opportunities through educational programs directed to our young people."