Community Action offering 2 new summer programs for families

ALBION – Community Action has announced two new summer programs for families in Genesee and Orleans counties.

According to Jeanette Worsley, case manager/health coach, the Summer Recreation Scholarship Program will provide financial aid to help income-eligible families pay for school-aged youth to participate in summer camps, clubs and organized sporting activities. Covered expenses include registration fees, uniform charges and mandatory equipment costs. Applicants must provide ID, proof of income, proof of residency and a copy of the registration/order form.

To register or for more information, Orleans County residents should contact Nikki at (585) 589-5605, ext. 101. Genesee County residents should contact Heidi at (585) 343-7798, ext. 403.

The Family Strong program is designed to provide life skills, education and opportunities for teens and families who have lost loved ones and struggle with their mental health. Youth aged 12-18 can make up to $200 by attending teen financial wellness workshops by M&T Bank, earn a three-year First Aid/CPR/AED/Naloxone certification from the American Red Cross and find harmony through horsemanship while participating in equine-assisted activities presented by Freedom Reins Occupational Therapy.

The Family Strong program has no income eligibility requirement, however, one family member aged 18 or older must attend an online, instructor led Youth Mental Health First Aid certification course, designed to help adults identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among children and adolescents.

The course will be presented by Compeer Buffalo on July 17 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Successful participants will earn a three-year certification from the National Council for Mental Wellbeing. To sign up or for more information, call or text Jeanette at (585) 866-5494. Registration ends July 10.