The Larned High School art students have been participating in the “Blankets of Hope.” The Blankets of Hope organization makes blankets and has people write notes of encouragement for those who are struggling. The notes are just short letters saying there are people there for you and more like that. These are then sent to the homeless to look out for them and let them know they are cared for. Sometimes people will add canned goods or other kinds of food in to help.

Mrs. Pontius is the art teacher at LHS and she had everyone in each art class write letters with pictures drawn of them. Once she gets all the letters she will get with a food pantry and get canned goods to go along with the blanket and letters which will be sent to a homeless shelter. Another thing she did with her classes is a month-long kindness challenge where everyday for a month the students make sure to do something kind for someone. 

Many people all around the world participate in Blankets of Hope and it has really made an impact for those who have received it. This organization was started by two brothers who quit their jobs to spread kindness around the world. It is something that students of all ages can do to be more kind and think about others and what they go through. It really gives them a thought about more than just their lives.

Mrs. Pontius agrees that students should learn how to show empathy. She said, “I think social and emotional awareness is important for people of all ages. Personally, I always like the opportunities to think about others.” Sometimes people tend to get caught up in their own problems and forget to think about what other people are going through. So learning how to be empathetic and aware of others makes it easier to help them and even yourself.

Once Mrs. Pontius gets all the kindness letters back, she said, “I am going to call the food pantry and the local ministerial alliance for donation, and allow them to locate those in need from our community.” Doing this will really help those who need it and help them feel cared for. Pontius also said, “It may not give the students a full idea, but getting them to think about others and understand empathy is a great starting point.” Mrs. Pontius did a great job with thinking about doing this and it will benefit the students, even more the people who are receiving the letters.