Fresh Air Fridays are back for a second year across Niagara County.
The series of events is a collaboration between the Niagara County Department of Health, P3 Center for Teens, Moms and Kids and the Healthy Moms Healthy Babies Coalition.
The free, family-focused program invites residents to enjoy summer fun, fresh air, and vital health resources on select Fridays from 1 to 3 p.m. through Aug. 22 at various parks across Niagara County.
Each event in the series will feature a different engaging theme, offering a variety of free, family-friendly activities, healthy snacks, and exciting prizes. Designed to promote healthy active lifestyles and community connection, Fresh Air Fridays also serve as a crucial platform for public health outreach. Community partners will be on-site at each event, providing valuable resources and information for families on topics including childhood development, essential childhood immunizations, lead poisoning prevention, child safety, and much more.
“We are incredibly excited to bring Fresh Air Fridays back for a second year,” said Janice Jenosheck, director of Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs. “In a world where screen time often dominates, these events offer so many benefits to playing and being outside. Knowing that we also have the opportunity to share important developmental and health information with our residents makes these events even more unique and exciting, truly meeting families where they are.”
Eileen Kineke, director of Perinatal and Infant Community Health at P3 Center, adds, “Play is an essential tool for learning. Fresh Air Fridays will provide opportunities for play by bringing families together in public outdoor spaces throughout the summer, fostering healthy development and stronger community bonds.”
Daniel Stapleton, Niagara County public health director, said, “The Niagara County Department of Health is proud to partner with P3 Center to provide this opportunity to families to benefit from the vital health information provided. These partnerships make all of us stronger.”
Schedule of events and themes:
• Friday – “Western Jamboree” at the Lockport Housing Authority, 301 Michigan St.
• July 25 – “Slither and Hop” at the North Tonawanda Library, 505 Meadow Drive.
• Aug. 8 – “Baby and Toddler Olympics” at the Hyde Park Splash Pad, 3200 Pine Ave., Niagara Falls
• Aug. 22 – “Flower Power” at the Newfane Library, 2716 Maple Ave.
For more information, visit www.niagaracounty.gov/departments/a-f/children_with_special_needs/fresh_air_fridays.php.