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Fresh Air Fund seeking more host families

Date: 7/18/2011

GREATER SPRINGFIELD — Summer vacation, that special time of year for all children, is here and those in Western Massachusetts still have the chance to make it memorable for a New York City child.

Thanks to the many families in Western Massachusetts and throughout 13 northeastern states and Canada, more than 1.7 million New York City children from low-income neighborhoods have enjoyed free summer experiences in suburban and small town communities through The Fresh Air Fund.

The fund is currently seeking more families to give inner-city children a two-week experience this summer. By volunteering as a host family for the Friendly Town program, residents in Western Massachusetts can help give a child a break from the heat and noise of the crowded city streets.

“Being able to run around and be outside is a freeing experience for her,” one Fresh Air host said about her Fresh Air child. “I still enjoy watching her face as she takes joy in the simple things, like roasting a marshmallow or jumping into the lake.”

To read about the special experiences of other Fresh Air children and hosts, visit www.freshair.org.

There are no financial requirements for hosting a Fresh Air child. First-time visitors are 6 to 12 years old, and re-invited youngsters may participate in the Friendly Town program through age 18.

To learn more about hosting a Fresh Air child this summer, contact Lorie Dixon at 567-1890, or call The Fresh Air Fund at (800) 367-0003 or visit www.freshair.org.

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