WinterKids, a nonprofit organization dedicated to offering Maine children a lifestyle of healthy, fun, winter outdoor activity, has upgraded its popular WinterKids Passport program for the 2004-2005 season. The Passport now allows fifth-, sixth- and seventh-graders in Maine to ski, snowboard, cross-country ski, snowshoe and skate at 39 Maine ski areas and 11 Maine ice arenas.

“We continue to be amazed at the support we get from the winter sports industry, the Maine school systems and our sponsors,” said Carla Marcus, director of WinterKids. “Winter is Maine’s best and longest season, and no matter how active a child is during the warmer months, you can’t stay active and healthy sitting on the couch for seven months. The WinterKids Passport program is a great opportunity for families to enjoy what winter has to offer.”

The WinterKids Passport offers Maine fifth-, sixth- and seventh-graders an entire season of free, healthful, outdoor winter recreation including cross-country and downhill skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, and ice skating, along with free or discounted lessons and rentals. The Passport also offers parents and siblings of Passport holders free or discounted tickets, lessons and rentals, to ensure that families develop healthy lifestyles together.

WinterKids also participates in the National Passport, which provides discounts to resorts in participating states.

For more information, visit www.winterkids.org for an application. Applications also may be picked up at local schools, Peoples Bank or L.L. Bean.