Even though HIP had to cancel in-person activities at most Summer Meals sites due to COVID, our AmeriCorps VISTA Jen Sogn and Teens in Public Service intern Sam found ways to provide enriching activities as well as nutritious meals for kids this summer.

Jen collaborated with Skate Like A Girl, an organization that empowers girls, young women and trans people through skateboarding, to offer socially distanced skateboarding at one site (left). All the kids that participated got to take home a skateboard and helmet after their lesson to practice what they learned at home!

Seattle Recreative provided take home craft packs that HIP distributed along with meals. Seattle Public Libraries as well as the King County Library System offered free books for kids. And HIP was lucky that our Teens in Public Service intern Sam came equipped with creativity and imagination.

Sam developed bilingual stargazing charts in English and Spanish, as well as nature scavenger hunts.  He also had fun starting bracelets for 250+ kids. (right). Sam is an Inglemoor High school student. Click here to hear more of Sam’s story.

Parents who have had kids home from school for months especially appreciated all the activities. “Anything that helps keep them entertained for more than 20 minutes!” exclaimed one mom with three kids in tow.