The Children’s Trust proudly announces the return of Family Expo with a cool and refreshing twist as the community’s largest, free family resource event. For three consecutive Saturdays including July 22, July 29 and August 5, 2023, the Family Expos will take place at indoor venues across central, southwest and northern Miami-Dade County. Not only will these venues provide shelter from the summer heat, but this year, The Trust has also partnered with Uber to make it even easier for families to attend.
"The Family Expo connects families with The Children's Trust's extensive network of service programs and other dedicated community organizations," said President & CEO James R. Haj. “The Expo is the premier destination where parents can discover a wealth of resources and opportunities for their children, including after-school programs, enrichment activities, nutrition education, injury prevention, support for children with special needs, and KidCare outreach. This year, by partnering with a ride-share service, we've taken additional steps to eliminate transportation barriers, making it even easier for families to attend the Family Expo event closest to them.”
Thanks to the partnership between The Children’s Trust and Uber, families can access an Uber Voucher good for up to $15 each way on the hours and days of the Family Expos. Uber Voucher terms and conditions apply. “Uber is excited to support this incredible event for the first time, providing transportation solutions and empowering families to access opportunities for their children’s growth and development – one ride at a time,” stated Uber Public Policy Manager Giovanni Castro.
Families and children attending these events will have the opportunity to interact with vital resource organizations and explore a wide range of exhibitors' displays and booths in air-conditioned gymnasiums, ensuring a cool and enjoyable day for all attendees. Attendees will gain access to valuable program information, receive complimentary items such as backpacks and school supplies, and have the opportunity to plan ahead for the upcoming school year.
“The Family Expo is an amazing opportunity that helps parents and students directly access valuable information and programs that support their growth and well-being throughout the school year and summer months,” said Dr. Jose L. Dotres, Superintendent of Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS). “We greatly appreciate our long-standing partnership with The Children’s Trust, which includes the opportunity for families to connect with various M-DCPS departments during the events.”
Dr. Jaffus Hardrick, President of Florida Memorial University, highlighted the value of Miami Gardens residents having access to the largest resource fair in the county. "We are thrilled that for a third year in a row, Miami Gardens is one of the sites of the Family Expo. FMU is a steadfast supporter of this event, which provides a fun and welcoming environment where families in our community can connect to essential programs that will empower them to thrive.”
While the indoor venues provide a new level of comfort, the Family Expos will continue to feature engaging outdoor activities and entertainment that families enjoy, from face painting and arts, and crafts to music and dancing and food trucks on site. Returning this year is the UHealth Jackson Urgent Care Teddy Bear Clinic, where children can have their beloved bears "treated" by health professionals. In addition, the Expos will offer over 600 complimentary meals to families attending the event. Children can explore an interactive HistoryMiami pop-up, and thanks to Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, receive free EKG screenings to ensure their heart health is checked.
"We are thrilled to host the Family Expo for a second year at a Miami Dade College campus once again,” said Madeline Pumariega, President of Miami Dade College. “This year the Kendall campus will serve as a vibrant location, bringing our community together and providing them with convenient access to a wealth of resources in Southwest Miami-Dade.”
Since its inception in 2008, the Family Expo has been a beacon of support for families with its blend of entertainment, valuable resources, and engaging activities for 15 years. Despite a short pause in 2020 due to the pandemic, The Children's Trust raises the bar by introducing innovative enhancements to the Family Expo experience such as enclosed settings and transportation services helping empower families to conveniently access valuable information.
Mark your calendars for this year's Family Expo events:
Central Family Expo
Saturday, July 22, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Booker T. Washington Senior High School
1200 NW 6th Ave, Miami, FL 33136
South Family Expo
Saturday, July 29, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Miami Dade College, Kendall Campus
11011 SW 104th St, Miami, FL 33176
North Family Expo
Saturday, August 5, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Florida Memorial University
15800 NW 42nd Ave, Miami Gardens, FL 33054
For more information, please visit www.TheChildrensTrust.org/FamilyExpo.
*These family events are made possible through the generous support of platinum sponsors including Comcast, EdFed, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, UHealth Jackson Children’s Care and WOW Marketing.
Media Contact:
Natalia Zea
Chief Public Policy & Community Engagement Officer, The Children’s Trust
natalia@thechildrenstrust.org