Each year, disadvantaged youngsters from New York City get a two-week change of scenery through the Fresh Air Fund’s Friendly Town Program.

The program has been in operation since 1877, serving more than 1.7 million children during that time. “All you need is a little room in your heart and in your home,” say officials at the Fresh Air Fund.

In 13 northeastern states and Canada, inner-city children experience playing barefoot in the grass or, for the first time, gazing at stars on a clear summer night.

Officials say host families get something out of it, too. They report forming long-lasting friendships with the youngsters and are appreciative of the opportunity to “help make a difference” in their lives.

The organization said more volunteer hosts are needed this year “to ensure that more inner-city children can have an unforgettable summer experience.”

For more information, write Fresh Air Fund, 633 Third Ave., NY, NY 10017; call (212) 897-8900; e-mail freshair@freshair.org; or check the Web at www.freshair.org.