So much has changed for all of us in just two short weeks and it seems updates are ever unfolding. We, at Heart of America, are so thankful for all the notes of support we have received and for partners who continue to examine what more we can do together to support students and their families in such a challenging time. The COVID-19 situation underscores the importance of partnership between nonprofits and the private sector, now more than ever. 

 

Heart of America is continuing our work to deliver both education resources and, once communities and facilities reopen their doors, vital space transformations. There are so many stories of kindness, creativity, and bravery in the world right now, and we are determined to make a difference where we can. 

In Baltimore, we are working with the Boys and Girls Club and BCPS to ensure all students have education resources at home, and in some cases one-to-one devices, in order to stay active and continue learning and growing during this unprecedented time.

This past week, while practicing social distancing through my home office, my family and I assembled 400 Education Resource Packs filled with school supplies, books, and art supplies for a vulnerable population in Minnesota. More than 200 bags went to Mount Olivet Rolling Acres and another 200 will be distributed to a Heart of America Alumni School in St. Paul next week. It was a way for us to be helpers in our local community, in a small but meaningful way. 

While HOA made the necessary decision to suspend in-person meetings for the safety of all involved, our team has taken to leading and participating in innovative virtual site walks all across the country. Technology is clearly the key to keeping all of us connected, yet we have seen first-hand how those without are being left behind.

When we surveyed our current and alumni schools, one thing was abundantly clear: kids and families don’t have devices (or even internet) at home and are unable to access distance learning tools. Many are without high-quality books and educational materials in their homes. At-risk youth are falling further behind their peers because of something completely out of their control. 

We’re asking for your support to bridge this gap at such a vital time at heartofamerica.org/donate. $15 provides an Education Pack full of age-appropriate books and art/STEM supplies; $250 equips a family with a technology device – an entire portal to learning – for students in need. Resources like these allow teaching and learning to continue until we can gather again in classrooms, libraries, tech labs, and community centers. We look forward to returning to these facilities together and bringing fresh and engaging resources to even more people. 

Until then, do you have a story of hope to share? What are you and your family doing to learn and grow? We’d love to share stories like these through our social channels so we can help inspire others. Please tag us on social media (see links below) or email christine@heartofamerica.org. 

With gratitude,

Jill Hardy Heath  

President and CEO, The Heart of America Foundation