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AUGUSTA – The Fresh Air Fund is looking for more Maine families interested in welcoming a New York City child into their home this summer.
In recognition of the organization’s 141 summers of bringing together New York City children and volunteer host families in Maine, Gov. Paul LePage has proclaimed March 20 Fresh Air Fund Day, and the organization noted in a news release that families who participate in The Fresh Air Fund’s Friendly Towns Program open their hearts and homes to New York City children.
“Participants are given the opportunity to explore new environments, meet people from different cultures, and have enriching experiences,” said Fatima Shama, executive director of The Fresh Air Fund. “On Fresh Air visits, children may visit a farm, milk a cow, engage in the arts, go swimming, learn about the wonders of the nighttime sky, and pick vegetables from a garden. Our participants discover and learn in an outdoor setting, building skills that can be utilized year-round, and unlock their limitless potential.”
The organization is looking for new host families in Maine, the release said. “Fresh Air Host Families simply want to share what they have with New York City children and introduce them to the joys of suburban or country life.
“It is an opportunity to enrich somebody’s life and your own family’s life at the same time,” said a Fresh Air parent in the release. “It’s as simple an incredible opportunity.”
First-time Fresh Air children are boys and girls ages 7 to 12 who live in New York City. Children who are reinvited by host families may continue with The Fresh Air Fund through age 18 and can enjoy extended trips.
The Fresh Air Fund, an independent, not-for-profit organization, has provided free summer experiences to more than 1.8 million New York City children since 1877, the release said.
The organization asks that those who want more information about hosting this summer calll Dawn Hansen at 207-608-0004 or visit The Fresh Air Fund online at www.freshair.org.
