Summer Youth Program At Essex County College Includes Education, Free Meals

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of Essex County College. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.

Essex County College will host its 2026 Summer Youth and Pre-College Readiness Programs, offering academic enrichment, hands-on learning and free meals for students in the Newark community.

The Summer Youth Program is open to students in grades 1–8 (ages 6–13) and includes activities in literacy, math, coding, fine arts, performing arts and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics).

The Early College Summer Program – Pre-College Readiness serves rising high school juniors and seniors residing in Essex County. Participants can earn up to six college credits through CSS 101 (College Success Seminar) and ENG 101 (English Composition) while developing college readiness skills. The program also includes workshops focused on college and career exploration, as well as professional and social skills.

Participants in both programs will receive free meals through the Summer Food Service Program.

“We want students to stay engaged, continue learning and feel supported throughout the summer,” said Angela McKinney, director of On-Campus Continuing Education at Essex County College. “This program gives families access to both enrichment and daily meals in a structured, welcoming environment.”

Program Details

• Location: Essex County College, 303 University Ave., Newark
• Dates: July 13 – August 21, 2026
• Schedule: Monday – Thursday
• Meals: Free meals provided to participants
• For more information, visit www.essex.edu/continuing-ed/, call (973) 877-3079 or email oce@essex.edu

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