Rochester Reporter

The City of Rochester is adjusting the operating hours of its R-Centers during the upcoming two-week school holiday recess. Mayor Malik D. Evans announced that, except for Christmas and New Year's Day, the centers will be open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., from December 23 through January 3.

“Kids are looking forward to their holiday break, but these interruptions to the family schedule can also offer their own set of challenges for parents,” said Mayor Evans. “By shifting the R-Center hours to match the traditional workday when schools are closed, parents can enjoy the holiday season with assurance that their children are in a fun and engaging environment that keeps them healthy, safe and learning.”

Breakfast and lunch will be available at these centers during this period. Dr. Shirley Green, commissioner of the Department of Recreation and Human Services, emphasized the importance of this initiative for working parents and those who rely on school meals. “Time off from school provides a welcome break for students and teachers, but for working parents and those who rely on school meals to make sure their kids are getting enough to eat each day, extended breaks can be a very stressful time,” she stated. “We want these parents to know: when school’s out, we’re open."

Winter recreation programs have already commenced at various city facilities and will continue until February 28. These include sports activities as well as classes in cooking, dance, computer coding, life-skills training, and nature exploration.

Typically, when schools are in session, most R-Centers operate from 2:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., offering dinner services as well.

City residents interested in participating in these programs or using recreation facilities can create an online account via the R-Central registration tool on the city's website.