Keystone Kidspace, 10 E. Hamilton Ave., York, announced a series of new initiatives to provide expanded access to families across York County. Visitors now have a variety of opportunities to visit Keystone Kidspace through programs designed to break down barriers to access. Initiatives include reduced admission and unique programs to benefit youth-serving organizations and families in York city and special populations.

Keystone Kidspace has joined Museums for All, a signature access program of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), administered by the Association of Children's Museums (ACM). The program supports families receiving food assistance (SNAP) benefits by providing reduced admission per person for up to four people per visit with the presentation of a SNAP Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card.

Through the support of the Powder Mill Foundation, Keystone Kidspace will expand access to nonprofit organizations serving York city youths through the Let the Kids Play program. This program provides organizations with regular access to Keystone Kidspace facilities, programs, and mentors free of charge. Children can visit under the supervision of organization staff and volunteers for STEAM-related field trip experiences facilitated by Keystone Kidspace staff and volunteers.

Through a grant from the Powder Mill Foundation, Keystone Kidspace will launch an after-school STEAM enrichment program for third- and fourth-grade students attending York city-based Title I schools. Beginning in the fall, this program will provide additional enrichment to students on Wednesday afternoons when they are dismissed early for staff in-service hours.

Through pilot programs, Keystone Kidspace has developed various special hours to meet the needs of particular groups. Monthly special hours include Sensory Inclusive Hours, Preschool Hours, Homeschool Days, and Scouting Evenings.

On weekends, visitors can experience a variety of interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and unique classes. Weekday programming includes school field trips, homeschool hours, Scout Nights, and other special events.

For more information on Keystone Kidspace activities and programming, contact Jenn Borden at jborden@keystonekidspace.org or 717-900-9915 or visit http://www.keystonekidspace.org.