Breaux Bridge kids participate in Day of Action

The United Way of Acadiana teamed up with a popular local summer enrichment program and several other organizations to bring a special day of education and recreational activities to about 220 kids here Friday, June 20.
The annual Day of Action got underway simultaneously at Breaux Bridge Elementary, in Abbeville and in several spots around Lafayette.
Activities here included a fitness field day, games to teach checkbook math, and a project of assembling packages of personal hygiene products for homeless people.
Another event, called “Reading Buddy,” featured certified therapy dogs supplied by Lafayette Animal Aid.
“These dogs are trained to be docile around children and in crowds,” said volunteer Lindsay Simon. “We have them read a book to the dogs, and then we allow them to “adopt” a stuffed animal to take home and read to. Plus the books are about how to take care of a pet, so they’re becoming engaged in reading and learning about animals at the same time.”
Cargill Salt and several area churches brought kids to the event, but the core attendance came from the ongoing summer enrichment program sponsored by the City of Breaux Bridge, St. Martin Parish Government and the St. Martin Parish School Board.
“We’re extremely appreciative of United Way of Acadiana for providing more recreational and academic opportunities for kids,” said Breaux Bridge City Councilman Albert “Da Da” Menard, who has for years overseen the local summer program.