Editor, The Spotlight;
For several years our family has hosted a child from NYC through the Fresh Air Fund, Dominic, and we’ve learned so much as we experienced upstate summers through his eyes. We began hosting because as a child, Lara’s family hosted children through the Fresh Air Fund and it was a memorable, positive experience. Dan grew up in NYC and understood what summers in the city were like, knowing what a great opportunity this would be for everybody involved. Together with our children we decided to try out the Fresh Air Program. It was a match. Dominic and our children have made lifelong memories and enjoy a yearround friendship.
Hosting a child is simple, easy and fun. The commitment is one week, during which you can share activities your family enjoys during the summer such as hiking, cookouts, riding bikes or a drive-in movie. These are all things we’re used to in Delmar, though perhaps novel to a child growing up in NYC.
While our children are enjoying a carefree summer, many children in NYC have responsibilities and safety concerns that keep them inside and limit their ability to enjoy all that summer can be. Hosting a child gives them a chance to be a kid and enjoy summer. For many, it is their only summer vacation.
The Fresh Air Fund is a well-established program, having provided positive experiences for NYC kids for over 100 years. The program is open to children from the age of six to 12.
Hosts are not limited to families with young children, nor are they limited by family size or income. The only requirements are that you open your home and your heart and be ready to have fun.
For more information please contact us at (518) 275-0414 or [email protected].
Lara and Dan Vazquetelles
Bethlehem Fresh Air Fund Chairpersons