RANGELEY — The Wilhelm Reich Infant Trust received a grant from Franklin Savings Bank Community Development Foundation of $300 to help cover fuel costs to heat The Wilhelm Reich Museum’s Conference Center where programs take place that serve young participants from day care centers in the area free of charge.

This year two Rangeley day care centers, a Head Start group from Phillips and K-2 classes from Stratton and Rangeley public schools participated, as well as an out-reach program to Western Maine Center for Children in Carrabassett Valley.

Each of the groups spent a day or half-day creating its own unique experience using the museum’s resources. They had access to the interactive exhibits from the Discovery Room that are designed to identify animals and learn about their habitats and life cycles, as well as books and materials dealing with water, earth and sky. They also used an indoor “jump and slide,” “ball tent” and “fishing pond.” Outdoors, they used snowshoes, cross-country skis and sliding on the hill.

The trust plans to continue the program each February and March. The grant will help cover the cost of heating the conference center for the 2012 children’s winter programs

These activities are part of the Natural Science Program at the Wilhelm Reich Museum, which offers a variety of programs in environmental studies, at no charge, for people of all ages.