Summer is right around the corner and this means kids are out of school. Well if your looking for your child to participate in activities and programs over summer break then "Healthy Summer":/depts/dys/healthysummer_parents.html is the way to go! There are a number of programs available right in your Neighborhood. Use the "NEW Healthy Summer Neighborhood Map":/depts/dys/DYS%20Interactive%20Map/map.htm to find the nearest one to you.

Healthy Summer began in 1996 as a joint project of the Hunger/Homeless and Youth Commissions. Its primary focus is to provide fun activities and healthy meals to children throughout the summer. In 1999, Healthy Summer was recognized as one of three All-America city programs. Healthy Summer is a public-private partnership providing educational programs, healthy meals and fun activities each summer for Lowell's youth.

* Approximately 60% of Lowell's school children participate in the Federal Free and Reduced Price Breakfast and Lunch Program.

* Inadequate nutrition for children is a serious problem affecting their health, behavior, and education.

* During the school year the breakfast and lunch program is a great help to families, but during the summer many children are at risk of experiencing hunger.

* Research provided by Project Bread indicates that more children attend lunch programs when combined with activities.

During the summer of 2002, the Healthy Summer Partnership:

* Employed over 450 youth

* Served over 5,000 youth

* Located at over 50 sites throughout Lowell