Homeless families continue to crowd shelters in New Bedford and Fall River.

These families are homeless for many reasons: job loss because of the pandemic, unable to find affordable housing, or loss of income because of illness, to name a few.

One social service organization is focusing on the children of those families. Horizons for Homeless Children is recruiting volunteers to play with those kids for two hours a week at homeless shelters in Fall River and New Bedford.

Meghan Schafer said there are dozens of kids in local shelters looking for someone to play with. Playspaces are available in local shelters to give children a dedicated place to play and grow and build connections with caring adults who are committed to their success.

Get our free mobile app

Each volunteer, called a "PAL," for "Placespace Activity Leader," must commit to one two-hour shift per week for a six-month period. All applicants must be vaccinated for COVID-19, and must complete a mandatory two-and-a-half-hour orientation prior to their first shift.

To learn how you can get involved, listen to Meghan Schafer's Townsquare Sunday interview.  It can be heard here.

Townsquare Sunday is a weekly public affairs program heard every Sunday at 6 and 11 a.m.  The program highlights individuals and organizations working to make Greater New Bedford a better place to live and work.

If you would like to have your organization featured on Townsquare Sunday, please e-mail the host at jim.phillips@townsquaremedia.com.

KEEP READING: What were the most popular baby names from the past 100 years?

More From WBSM-AM/AM 1420