Last night as C and I were sitting outside enjoying a little fresh air, a delicious meal, and eachother’s company, he perused our local newspaper and came across an article about some families in our area that are hosting children from The Fresh Air Fund.
The organization has been around since 1877 and provides free summer vacations to children from New York City. For one week each summer the host family welcomes a child into their home and gives them a chance to explore life outside the city. The time they are here doesn’t have to involve extravagant outings, but rather fun things that we may often overlook. A game of catch in the backyard, a hike in a nature trail, a trip to the local library, ice cream down near the river.
Often the children are matched with families and wind up returning to the same home year after year, essentially becoming an extended family member. After a long discussion about it, C and I are hopeful that we can participate in the program next summer. I share this only in the hopes that one person reading this may become intrigued and participate as well. That would be one more little life who could be forever changed.