Niagara County Healthy Moms Healthy Babies Coalition celebrates 3rd year of 'Fresh Air Fridays'

Niagara County Department of Health press release

The Niagara County Healthy Moms Healthy Babies Coalition announced the return of its popular “Fresh Air Fridays” series for a third consecutive year. This free, family-focused summer initiative brings together children, parents, caregivers and community organizations for days filled with outdoor play, hands-on activities, and valuable family resources.

“Fresh Air Fridays” will take place throughout Niagara County this summer, offering families opportunities to explore local parks and community spaces while connecting with organizations that support the health and well-being of young children and their caregivers.

“Our goal has always been to create welcoming spaces where families can spend quality time together with activities that promote child development, enjoy the outdoors, and learn about resources available in their community,” said Janice Jenosheck, co-chair of the Niagara County Healthy Moms Healthy Babies Coalition and director of the children with special needs program for the Niagara County Department of Health. “ ‘Fresh Air Fridays’ continue to grow each year because they provide a unique opportunity for families to connect, play, and access information in a fun, relaxed and engaging environment.”

Each “Fresh Air Friday” event will feature themed activities, interactive play opportunities, children’s games, community resources, and opportunities for families to learn about child development, nutrition, health and wellness, and other services available throughout Niagara County.

This year’s “Fresh Air Fridays” are made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Niagara County Healthy Moms Healthy Babies Coalition, including event organizers the P3 Center for Teens, Moms and Kids; Catholic Charities WIC program; Niagara County Department of Health; and Pinnacle Community Services.

“We are grateful for the continued support of our community partners and look forward to another summer of helping families discover the benefits of outdoor play, social connection, and community engagement,” Jenosheck said.

Community organizations interested in hosting an activity or sharing program information at one or more events are encouraged to join this growing initiative. To sign up, contact Jenosheck at [email protected] or 716-278-1991.

2026 event schedule and themes include:

•July 17 (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.): Lockport Housing Authority – children’s movies theme

•July 24 (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.): Pendleton Park – carnival rheme

•Aug 7 (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.): Niagara Falls Park (location TBA) – World Breastfeeding Week

•Aug 21 (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.): Falkner Park in Youngstown – “End of Summer Bash”

For more information about “Fresh Air Fridays” visit https://www.niagaracounty.gov/departments/a-f/children_with_special_needs/fresh_air_fridays.php or contact Jenosheck at 716-278-1991.

The Healthy Moms/Healthy Babies Coalition works collaboratively to promote the health and well-being of mothers, babies and families throughout Niagara County through education, advocacy and community partnerships. Any partners interested in joining the Niagara County Healthy Moms Healthy Babies Coalition can reach out to co-chairpersons Constance Desmarais ([email protected]) or Jenosheck ([email protected]).