As temperatures fall, thoughts turn to those who don’t have a warm and comfortable place of their own to live. Thankfully, hundreds of families with young children experiencing homelessness can count on Horizons to play an important role in their growth and development during this season. In this edition, you’ll read about how Horizons updated its practice frameworks to better foster relationships, embraced technology to enhance innovation, and celebrated the strength of our Hispanic Heritage amongst our staff and families.
The youngest kids in Mass. shelters need more support, advocates warn
In the state’s shelter system as a whole, there are more than 10,000 children. State officials estimate that about half are too young for school, which means they may not get the services and enrichment that classrooms can offer. Horizons’ Playspaces provide a vital service helping to meet the needs of families with young children.WBUR 90.9 FM’s recent piece discusses the Playspace program and how it gives children access to playrooms and enriching activities all across Massachusetts.
Foundations, Frameworks and Fostering Relationships
Horizons’ valued corporate partners support our programs and sponsor events as a way to engage directly with children. Recently, several groups hosted our students on fun fall field trips! Cabot Corporation brought a classroom of Pre-K students to the Museum of Science to explore STEM activities and exhibits. MFS Investment Management chaperoned two classrooms at the Boston Nature Center for a nature scavenger hunt, and Bain Capital brought students apple-picking at Lookout Farm! Thank you to our corporate partners for being generous with your time and providing external opportunities for them to learn and explore!
Horizons Celebrates Hispanic Heritage
Horizons celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month with celebrations that included beautiful board displays, classroom activities, singing and music, and family engagement in all the activities. We also welcomed Turner Construction's Minorities ERG and State Street's Latin American Professionals Group to read to our students in Spanish. Staff enjoyed a catered lunch with decorations featuring food and beverage selections representing Latino and Hispanic cuisine. The Hispanic/Latinx ERG led much of the work with support from colleagues across the organization.
Your feedback is welcome and valuable to us. We hope you’ll click ‘reply’ and share your thoughts.
We are dedicated to improving the lives of families facing homelessness.