BOSTON – In recognition of The Fresh Air Fund’s 139th summer of bringing together New York City children and volunteer host families in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Governor Baker has proclaimed March 20 “Fresh Air Fund” throughout the state. This summer, The Fresh Air Fund will once again allow thousands of inner-city boys and girls to escape the hot, noisy New York City streets to enjoy the simple joys of summertime fun in the country!
Families who participate in The Fresh Air Fund’s Volunteer Host Family Program open their hearts and homes to New York City children in the summer.
“Sharing your home and the surrounding community with a Fresh Air youngster can be the beginning of a worthwhile and meaningful experience – for both the child and your family,” says Jenny Morgenthau, Executive Director of The Fresh Air Fund. “This year, we are looking for new host families in Pioneer Valley to celebrate our 139th summer and give children a chance to run barefoot through the grass or gaze at the star-filled skies.”
Volunteers simply want to share what they have with city children and introduce them to the joys of suburban or country life.
“It helps us to slow down and enjoy the summer a bit more. Fresh Air children enjoy just catching fireflies and watching the stars come out,” says Lisa, a Fresh Air host
Families find hosting so rewarding that more than 65 percent of all Fresh Air children are invited to visit the same host families year after year. First-time Fresh Air visitors are six to 12 years old and all it takes is the willingness to welcome a New York City child to your community.
The Fresh Air Fund, an independent, not-for-profit organization, has provided free summer experiences to more than 1.8 million inner-city children since 1877. For more information about hosting this summer, please call Susan Morrello at 413-687-3820 or visit The Fresh Air Fund online at www.freshair.org.
