We were so touched by the kindness of this Ocean County family and others like them, who, through the efforts of the Fresh Air Fund, opened their homes and their lives to children for the chance to make an impact on their lives. We had to share their story!
“We met Selena last July for our first Fresh Air experience,” says Angela Randall, of Ocean County. “She has been here two other times since!” Angela, her husband James, and their two children Laura, age 9, and Michael, age 6, opened their home to Bronx-Native Selena, age 11, through The Fresh Air Fund’s Friendly Town program. Since 1877, The Fresh Air Fund has provided free summer vacations to more than 1.7 million New York City children. Selena spent her winter break in Ocean County, enjoying Christmas and New Year’s with her host family. Laura, Michael, and Selena spent their time hanging out and doing various arts and crafts, including making her first gingerbread houses and bead ornaments. Fresh Air children experience many firsts while visiting volunteer host families and form memories that will last a lifetime! “We love having her! When she is here, she is like one of our kids!”
The Fresh Air Fund needs your help in summer 2012 to give more inner-city children the opportunity of new experiences and lasting friendships in Ocean County! Sign up to become a host today and discover what many families in the area have already learned – a Fresh Air summer is one that makes a difference. On first time visits to host families, Fresh Air children are six to 12 years old and stay for up to two weeks. Fresh Air children and volunteer families often begin friendships that last a lifetime.
For more information, please call Samantha Doyle at (609) 290-1219 or The Fresh Air Fund at (800) 367-0003. You can also simply donate.
Connect with Fresh Air fund online www.freshair.org, Facebook and Twitter.
