At The M Network, we always look for our work to matter. And now, as COVID continues, we find ourselves sitting on a goldmine of ideas that might benefit clients with kids, as well as the community as a whole. For example, as an agency of record for The Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust, we are tasked with managing their annual Poster and Essay Contest. This year more than ever, we think it can serve dual purposes of educating students on homelessness AND become a great activity for parents to do with kids in quarantine!
The Homeless Sensitivity Poster and Essay Contest is now accepting applications through the end of January 2022. This contest is an excellent opportunity to brainstorm meaningful solutions that address the causes of homelessness, overcome negative stereotypes, and create compassion for our county’s homeless. It started in 2006 to honor Norris Gaynor, who, while homeless, was assaulted and murdered by three inebriated teenagers.
The contest gives students across Miami-Dade County the opportunity to delve into all forms of creative artwork – from designs and comics to storylines that illustrate powerful messages and encourage themes like care and respect for individuals experiencing homelessness.
Eliezer Castro, an art teacher from Rubén Darío Middle School, has made this a must-do assignment for his students shared his inside scoop on the contest with The M Network. “It’s been a good experience for myself, my students, and our school. It’s given our school a great opportunity to educate kids on expressing their ideas and feelings on this very delicate subject.” You can read his entire interview on the Homeless Trust Blog.
The winning student and Project UP-START Liaison or sponsoring teacher will be awarded. All student winners will receive a $300 gift card (one per student), and the Project UP-START Liaison or sponsoring teacher will receive a $200 gift card (one per Project UP-START Liaison).
Submitting your poster is easy. You can take a picture of the artwork and send the image along with the submission form to contest@homelesstrust.org. Written essays are also submitted to that email address.
Check out the Homeless Trust and Project UP-START website for more information. We’re rooting for you!
