Several agencies in Red Deer have come together for a unique way to engage neighbourhoods this summer. 

From July 7th to August 27th, representatives from a number of community agencies will be out and about in 16 neighbourhoods across the city, delivering fun, take-home kits and facilitating free fun for kids six and under. 

"The City of Red Deer and its community partners realize that this summer will be very different for families. The goal with Kidz Curbside Connections is to provide opportunities for families to play and learn together, through activity kits that are accessible to all. We felt it was really important to come to the neighbourhoods so families can see us when it's convenient for them in a place that's familiar," said Social Planning Supervisor Bobby-Jo Stannard. 

This is an opportunity for community members to get out and meet each other and get to know the other families in the neighbourhood. 

People are asked to stay in their own neighbourhoods and wait for the program to come to them, as opposed to traveling to another community and seeking out the program that way.

"Neighbourhoods are extremely important and especially when there aren't as many opportunities for social connection," Stannard said. 

"We wanted to travel to the neighbourhoods so people could get out and see each other in a safe, socially distanced way."

The City of Red Deer is teaming up with McMan Family Resource Network, Red Deer Childcare, Family Services of Central Alberta and the Red Deer Native Friendship Society to offer the program. 

Stannard said each of the themed kits will have some educational materials and fun activities for families to try out. The themes include “Launching into Summer” that includes kite decorating and “Chalk Talk“ which has a kindness rock decorating and a chalk obstacle course.  

"They're fun activities where kids can learn, and parents can also learn about early childhood development at the same time."

Events will run from 3 to 5 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday in July and August.

All events will run outdoors and are weather dependent. The first event is scheduled for Tuesday, July 7 at the Bower Community Association, located at 85 Boyce Street.

Future event dates and locations will be shared on the City website and social media pages as they are confirmed. More information about the event, as well as dates and locations, are available on the City website at reddeer.ca/kidzconnect.