WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. — It was a hot sunny day as children and their families enjoyed food and games near the River Valley Regional YMCA in Williamsport. The Salvation Army hosted its first "Kidz Klub" family block party.
"So that we could reach the children of this neighborhood, and get them into our Salvation Army activities, maybe give the parents some information that they might need to get some assistance, or guide them in a direction they could maybe look for whatever they're in need of this time of summer," said Major Sheryl Hershey with Salvation Army Williamsport.
The program was made possible through a donor who wanted the money to be used for a kids' program. There were plenty of activities, including one that proved to be very popular during this heat wave.
"Right now, the dunk tank is the most famous thing. Eventually, hopefully, they will play with the other games we've put out, but it's just been so exciting this afternoon just to see how many kids are coming in with their families," added Hershey.
Aliva Lomison of Williamsport was working as a volunteer at the block party. Despite the hot weather she was still enjoying her time at the party.
"I dunked my sister in the dunk tank, but I've seen a couple of people that I haven't seen in a couple of years here, but it's been pretty nice," said Alivia Lomison of Williamsport.
The Williamsport Salvation Army also decided to have the block party to get more involved in the community.
"Just to get out of the house, have something to do with your kids, and just do something really fun for the day for a couple of hours even—even if they just come for an hour and hang out with their kids for an hour and come back to the next one," said Hershey.
The Salvation Army plans to do another "Kidz Klub" and family block party next month and in August.