The Friendly Town Program
Summertime is Fresh Air time for thousands of New York City children growing up in disadvantaged communities. Through The Fund’s Friendly Town program, close to 5,000 children visit volunteer host families each summer in rural and suburban communities. Fresh Air children stay for two weeks or more in 300 Friendly Towns across 13 Northeastern states from Virginia to Maine and Canada.
Since 1877, more than 1.7 million inner-city children, living in New York City’s toughest neighborhoods, have experienced the joys of Fresh Air vacations. The Fresh Air Fund is primarily supported by the generosity of thousands of contributors.
Fresh Air Fund Host Families
There is no such thing as a "typical" host family. If you have room in your home - and your heart - to host a child, you could be one too.
Fresh Air Fund Children
Fresh Air children are boys and girls who live in New York City and are eager to experience the simple pleasures of life outside the city.
Host FAQ
Read through our list of frequently asked questions about hosting a child.
Inquire About Hosting
Find out who you need to contact, if you are interested in becoming a host.
Preparing for a Visit
If you’re a host getting ready for a visit, or just wondering what it might be like to become a host, read on.
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Friendly Town Volunteers
In every Friendly Town, there is a volunteer committee and chairperson responsible for the program.
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Community Participation
Friendly Town communities offer assistance and support to Fresh Air children in many important ways.
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The Fund's Role
At The Fresh Air Fund’s main office in New York City, a professional staff oversees the activities of Friendly Town volunteers and assists them in their organizational and recruitment efforts.
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