Providence Launches Summer Programs for Youth

Categories: CharityCommunityEvents/What's HappeningNews

Children enjoying various recreational activities during summer programs in Providence.

News Summary

Mayor Brett Smiley has unveiled a series of summer initiatives in Providence, focusing on youth services for children aged 18 and younger. The ‘Eat, Play, Learn PVD’ program will provide free meals to combat food insecurity. Accompanying recreational activities include soccer camps organized by the Portland Timbers Football Club, enriching experiences, and several family-friendly events to promote engagement and physical fitness throughout the summer. Parents can register their children for affordable summer camps, emphasizing the city’s dedication to community welfare and youth enrichment.

Providence – Mayor Brett Smiley has officially announced a series of summer programs aimed at providing vital services to residents, particularly children aged 18 and younger, during a special event held today. The key aspect of this initiative revolves around the distribution of free meals through the “Eat, Play, Learn PVD” program, emphasizing the city’s commitment to addressing food insecurity among youth this summer.

The recent announcement is coupled with details about various recreational activities, including splashpads and enrichment opportunities available throughout the city. Parents and guardians are encouraged to seek out the comprehensive offerings designed to keep youngsters engaged and active during the warm months.

In addition to the city’s summer activities, the Portland Timbers Football Club (PTFC) also unveiled plans for their 2025 summer camps at Providence Park and across the wider Portland metro area. These camps cater to children of all ages, genders, and skill levels, ensuring inclusivity and promoting healthy sporting participation among the youth.

Participants at PTFC camps will have the opportunity to receive a free ticket to a Timbers match, with the option to purchase additional tickets at a discounted rate. Furthermore, the club’s community outreach platform, Stand Together, will support several camps and scholarships for youth under its “Everybody Plays” initiative, aimed at fostering physical fitness and sportsmanship.

On June 14, from 1 to 4 PM, a kickoff field day is scheduled at Providence Park, featuring engaging games and activities designed for families. Registration for this event allows entry for one adult and one child.

In terms of more specialized training, PTFC is organizing residential camps for youths aged 13-18 from July 21-24, which will provide an experience similar to that of collegiate and professional athletes. For younger children, recreational soccer camps for ages 5-13 are set to take place on July 9-11 and August 4, 5, and 7.

Additional training sessions will include goalkeeper and striker camps for individuals aged 11-18 on various dates throughout July and August, along with a Technical Training program aimed at enhancing technical abilities and physical fitness.

Looking further into the fall, the second annual 3v3 Tournament will occur on September 28 at Providence Park, incorporating divisions for both youth and adults. Additionally, the PTFC adult soccer league is planned to commence during the fall, with matches held on Monday and Tuesday evenings.

To help families navigate the diverse recreational offerings this summer, a Summer Opportunities Fair is being hosted by Mayor Smiley along with educational officials today from 10 AM to noon at the Providence Career and Technical Academy. This event will provide valuable insights into sports camps and other activities available to local students and families.

Sign-ups for all-day summer recreation camps will begin at an affordable rate of $5 per week per child, with online registration slated to open on April 12. This affordability highlights the city’s dedication to providing access to quality recreational experiences.

The “Eat, Play, Learn PVD” initiative aims to not only offer free meals but also incorporate educational programs that will take place throughout the summer, giving children a well-rounded experience during their break from school. Registration for this program is also open, providing opportunities for summer employment for youth interested in gaining work experience.

As summer approaches, Providence is actively implementing measures to ensure all children have access to nourishment and enjoyable activities, reaffirming the city’s commitment to community welfare and enrichment.