Shelters can be sad, scary, lonely places. For kids experiencing homelessness, the whole world is unsettled, and they often have no place to run, play or just be kids.
The St. Cloud Salvation Army hopes to change that.
They’ve recently started the SMART Kids program, aimed at kids of any age living in the shelter.
The program will provide educational, health and recreational opportunities. There will be tutoring, arts activities and field trips.
In the beginning, Johnson has been working with social work students from St. Cloud State University. As part of their learning, they would plan activities and interact with the kids.
Brianna Clark, senior social work student, helped with Project Homeless Connect. It opened her eyes to homelessness in St. Cloud.
“I think the best place you can start to empower people is when they’re young,” Clark said. “Making a difference in the kids’ lives now … no matter the situation … they can always chase their dreams.”
