Monthly Program Newsletter
for Parents, Guardians, and Community-Based Bigs
IN-PERSON ACTIVITIES GUIDELINES
Big Brothers Big Sisters is following NJ state guidelines related to COVID-19. We have updated our COVID safety policies to reflect the most recent updates -- see the link below to review the guidelines. In regards to face masks – they are no longer required in most outdoor and indoor settings, however unvaccinated individuals should continue wearing a face covering in public spaces - especially indoors - to protect yourself and others. We ask that you follow these recommendations and discuss mask wearing and activities with each other (parent/guardian/volunteer/child) when planning outings. 
FREE PIZZA FOR SUMMER READING
Enroll on the website to track and reward your Little's reading for June, July and August in our digital dashboard. When they meet their monthly reading goal, they'll receive a free one-topping Personal Pan Pizza® from Pizza Hut! 
FORSYTHE WILDLIFE REFUGE
This beautiful National Wildlife Refuge in Galloway featured 43,000 acres of protected coastal habitat and nature trails! Check their website for hiking trail options ranging from .25 mile to 2 miles. You'll get to see all kinds of diverse wildlife including herons, egrets, turtles, and crabs. Nature backpacks can be borrowed free of charge from their visitor center, as well as binoculars and field guides. 
TIE DYE FUN
What screams summertime fun more than tie dye?! This is a fun, easy activity that is perfect to do outdoors. There are so many different patterns and colors, so get creative!
BEACHSIDE SCIENCE IN AVALON
One Wednesday each month you can visit Avalon Surfside Park (30th Street & the Beach) at 6pm for a FREE Beachside Science presentation! They'll be running through September. Presented by the Wetlands Institute of Stone Harbor, and sponsored by the Avalon Environmental Commission.
FREE MOVIE NIGHTS AT THE SHORE
There are plenty of fun activities to keep you and your Little busy this summer! Lots of towns are offering free family events including outdoor movie nights. We've compiled a list of a few great options below, but be sure to check with your town to see what they're offering, too!
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT - AUG. 3
The 38th Annual NATIONAL NIGHT OUT Against Crime Event is just a few weeks away on Tuesday, August 3! Many local communities have National Night Out events, so check local listings to see what is planned near you. Big Brothers Big Sisters will be at the Middle Township event which is being held from 5-8pm at the Clarence and Georgiana Davies Sports Complex (626 Goshen Rd, CMCH). Come on out and say hi! There will be fun activities for the whole family!
ADVANCE CHILD TAX CREDIT
There have been important changes to the Child Tax Credit that will help many families receive advance payments starting this summer. The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021 expands the Child Tax Credit (CTC) for tax year 2021 only. Click the links below to learn more.
PRODUCE VOUCHERS
Low income residents, age 60 years and older are encouraged to take advantage of the state's farm market produce voucher program. This program provides an opportunity to purchase locally grown produce using $30 worth of free vouchers. The vouchers may be used at participating farm markets from July through November.
TEACHING KIDS ABOUT DIVERSITY
Children need examples of others who are open and accepting of difference because they are heavily influenced by the behaviors of adults. Bigs and parents/guardians can play an active role in shaping their Little/child’s behaviors, helping them to be more accepting of and kind toward those who look different from them.
MORE ACTIVITIES AND RESOURCES
Are you new to the BBBS program? Are you having trouble thinking up fun activity ideas that keep everyone safe and healthy? Looking for local resources to help your family through this challenging time? Click the links below to view previous newsletter issues. We sent out a weekly newsletter from March through September and then switched to a monthly format.