The City of Rochester announced Thursday that R-Centers will be shifting to daytime hours during the holiday break for students.

From Dec. 23 to Jan. 3, they will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with the exception of Christmas and New Year's Day.

Breakfast and lunch will be served each day.

Mayor Malik Evans says this move is to ensure parents can enjoy the holiday break while their children have access to a fun and engaging environment.

“Kids are looking forward to their holiday break, but these interruptions to the family schedule can also offer their own set of challenges for parents,” Evans said in a statement. “By shifting the R-Center hours to match the traditional workday when schools are closed, parents can enjoy the holiday season with assurance that their children are in a fun and engaging environment that is keeps them healthy, safe and learning.”

“Time off from school provides a welcome break for students and teachers, but for working parents and those who rely on school meals to make sure their kids are getting enough to eat each day, extended breaks can be a very stressful time,” Dr. Shirley Green, commissioner of the Department of Recreation and Human Services, said in a statement. “We want these parents to know: when school’s out, we’re open. City R-Centers offer a valuable resource where our staff of caring adults keep kids busy with healthy and fun activities and also make sure they get something to eat during the day.”

For a list of R-Centers and more information on winter programs, you can visit the city's website.