For most kids, summertime
conjures up images of the surf, twisted slides at water parks, and finger-licking
family barbecues. Sadly some youth never get the chance to experience much of
what the sunshine season can hold. Thankfully, there is the Fresh Air Fund. —
Since 1877, the Fresh Air
Fund, an independent, nonprofit agency, has provided free summer vacations to
more than 1.7 million underprivileged New York City children. This year, the organization is looking
for Northeastern families in the country and suburbs to host inner-city kids
from over 90 participating social service and community groups. (Many who do
not have access to large, open, or outdoor play areas.)
The Fresh Air Fund’s
Volunteer Host Family program is known as Friendly Town. A child may be invited to stay for up to two weeks in a host’s home
at no financial requirement. The host family will be able to request the gender
and age-group of the Fresh Air child, guaranteeing compatibility.
Volunteers can enable boys
and girls, ages six through 18, to partake in the small joys of summer, such as
building sandcastles, playing in the backyard, or riding bicycles.
Spread the word, become a
host today.
For more information
about becoming a host, please call (800) 367-0003 or visit here.
