Summer enrichment program held across St. Mary Parish

St. Mary Parish youngsters are receiving a healthy dose of fun and learning activities this summer through enrichment programs at community civic centers in the area.
To date over 5,000 children have enjoyed more than 10,000 hot breakfasts and lunches at seven sites throughout St. Mary Parish as part of the agency’s summer food program. In between the meals, sites in Baldwin, Verdunville and West St. Mary are operating summer enrichment activities for the children.
Baldwin Mayor Donna Lanceslin said the enrichment classes keep the children excited. “This is the first time the community center has been utilized to benefit the children on a social and academic scale,” Lanceslin said.
Mary Louise Stansbury, Enrichment Program Director at the St. Mary Alternative School said, “It’s a great program where children can learn about the importance of family, getting along, nature, how to interact with teachers, and have fun with arts and crafts.”
West St. Mary Civic Center Enrichment Program Director Arlene Tingue said she’s thrilled to see children so excited to learn new things and using their social skills to interact with each other. “This program gives them something productive to do, rather than just stay home watching TV all day,” Tingue said.
Almetra J. Franklin, CEO said the added benefit of the Summer Food Program makes it easier for working parents to know their children are in a safe environment with great learning experiences to enjoy for the summer.
St. Mary Parish Government sponsors all three enrichment programs, while USDA funds the summer food program.