Mass Audubon SouthCoast Sanctuaries was recently awarded $2500.00 in grant funding from the United Way of Greater New Bedford’s Summer Fund to administer its summer youth program, Summer Eco Explorers at the Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary in Westport and South Dartmouth. These locations offer a mix of habitats including barrier beach, salt marsh, shrubland, old pasture, forest and grassland.

The grant will provide a free, four-day outdoor experiential learning opportunity for twelve children, ages 6-10, from qualified families in the greater New Bedford area with two date and location options that will allow them to explore and enjoy a natural community resource. Breakfast, lunch and snacks are also provided for those receiving the camperships.

Non-qualified families may also register for a daily rate of $40 for Mass Audubon members and $50 for nonmembers. New family memberships are available for $32 through June 30th.

An open house is planned Saturday June 25th from 12-2 p.m. at the Allens Pond Field Station, located at 1280 Horseneck Road in Westport, where visitors can meet the program staff, enjoy a guided walk along the beach loop trail, and register their children for the program.

The program will run July 11th–14th and July 25th-28th, from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. and will offer self-guided family hikes on both Thursdays to engage parents and encourage time spent outdoors. The first session is located at the Allens Pond Field Station, 1280 Horseneck Road in Westport and the second session at Stone Barn Farm, 786 East Horseneck Road in South Dartmouth.

Qualified families must provide proof of financial need in one of the following ways: copy of your 2015 tax return or official paperwork confirming eligibility for free/reduced lunch. Please note transportation to and from the program is not provided.