Summer programs open up for kids under guidelines

SEASIDE, Calif. (KION)

Summer programs are opening up for children and families who may be struggling with work or finding child care during the ongoing pandemic.

The Boys and Girls Club in Seaside opened its doors this week for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic hit the US.

This is the first of its locations to open on the Central Coast.

Not all sports or play time activities are available for safety reasons, but one staff member says getting kids out of the house serves some benefits.

"Social, emotional health for sure. Kids just thrive, there's this synergy when you're with other human beings," says Marlene Trotter-Murray, Senior Impact Director.

The Pacific Grove Museum also said they are moving forward with their summer camp program.

Both places are adhering to health and safety guidelines such keeping kids six feet apart, screening kids for COVID-like symptoms such as fever and avoiding high touch equipment or activities.

The Boys and Girls Club is focusing on learning material while trying to make it fun and interactive for the children.

For 10-year-old club member, Alizon C. this means a sign of hope in a time she says was uncertain in her life.

"I didn't know why was going on in the world," says Alizon.

"Here I have more activities to play with and do stuff and I have people to do it with me. It made me feel comfortable."

What used to be a couple hundred children running around the Boys and Girls Club is now capped off at around 50 children.

Staff members for the Boys and Girls Clubs say they are working to reopen more locations soon and hope to take in more children.

The Pacific GroveNatural History Museum is set to reopen June 29th.

For more information visit boca.org and pgmuseum.org