The Saturday Enrichment Program grew out of a need that Judy Horn had for her own grandchildren. The program was started with those grandchildren in mind but grew to include all the children of the Home Garden community. The Saturday Enrichment Program is now the flagship program of all that Kings Partnership for Children has done and is now doing.
The Saturday Enrichment Program is currently held from 11 AM to 2 PM and includes a healthy lunch. The curriculum is one of enrichment, or reinforcement, of what the children learn throughout the school week and is our version of school readiness for those children who are ages 0-5.
Reading and other elements of education are included in the curriculum. Respect of one's own culture as well as others is taught and nurtured in this program. Health, nutrition, personal safety and safety in the child's environment are major elements of this program.
Judy prides in the fact that the children are also taught to respect those who protect and serve the community. The Kings County Sheriff, the Kings County Fire Department, the Kings County Probation Department, as well as the City of Hanford police and fire departments have contributed to the Saturday Enrichment Program.
The children in this program also go on educational field trips. Two years ago over thirty children went to Monterrey and several of them saw the ocean for the very first time. Trips have also included one recently to the Fresno Metro Museum of Art, History, and Science.
During the weeks between summer school and the beginning of the regular school year in the fall are where Kings Partnership for Children hosts what we call Summer Camp where the children are fed breakfast and lunch. There are several programs held in between the two meals. The probation department and other organizations have hosted many of these programs.
There is a Christmas Party hosted by several clubs, agencies, businesses, services and programs each year for the children who participate in the Saturday Enrichment Program. The Party includes entertainment, group singing, food, and presents for the children. A gift certificate is provided for the children to give their parents something for Christmas as well.
Children from the Home Garden community and the greater Hanford area are welcome to enroll. For more information please call 584-4822 and ask about the Saturday Enrichment Program.