Highmark Blue Shield provides $80,000 to City of Harrisburg to fund youth programs

Harrisburg, Pa. (June 13, 2017) — Today, Highmark Blue Shield presented the City of Harrisburg with an $80,000 grant to fund summer enrichment and after-school programs for children and teens in the Harrisburg school district. Through the programs, more than 1,000 kids from across the city will have a chance to learn to swim, perfect their golf swing, and have a fun, safe summer at no cost.

"We are pleased to continue our longstanding partnership with the City of Harrisburg, together, working to build a stronger, healthier community," said Kathleen McKenzie, vice president of community affairs, Highmark Blue Shield. "In addition to providing a safe environment for kids, these programs help keep children and teens physically active, promote healthy habits, and improve school performance."

The Highmark funding will support both the city's after-school programs and summer enrichment programs, which include basketball, golf, swimming, various educational field trips, and a daily lunch. All Harrisburg youth ages 6-18 are eligible.

"Without the generous support of Highmark Blue Shield, we wouldn't be able to offer this variety of free programming to Harrisburg youth," said Harrisburg Mayor Eric Papenfuse. "In addition to all of the activities offered within the city, plans are also underway to have young people attend a major league baseball game, Chocolate World, and the Carlisle Sports Emporium. Thanks to Highmark and city employees, it will be a great summer for our kids."

Since 2010, Highmark Blue Shield has provided more than $650,000 in funding to support the City of Harrisburg's youth programs.

For more information about the city's programs, go to www.harrisburgpa.gov.