(CLAIR) – Poverty and homelessness are difficult issues that millions of people around the world face on a daily basis. These struggles are even more difficult for children, who may not fully understand their situation or have the resources to change it.
For The Need Foundation is a Simi Valley based non-profit organized to help homeless and low-income families with children. Within the program, kids learn new skills, are introduced to positive role models and are presented with opportunities for education and eventual careers as they become adults.
Today the kids were given a unique opportunity to build and launch their own rocket, meet a real NASA Astronaut, and participate in a meaningful discussion about life and choices.
During the rocket-building workshop, they learned about the science of rockets and how they work. The program was designed to offer the children a glimpse into the exciting possibilities of a STEM education. The activity provided a fun and interactive way to learn about science.
After several hours of work, the kids had the chance to launch their rocket. The experience of launching a rocket was a thrill for these kids, many of whom had never had the opportunity to participate in such an event.
But the excitement didn’t end there. The children were also given the chance to meet a real NASA astronaut, Colonel James Kelly, who shared stories about his experiences in space and encouraged the children to pursue their dreams. The astronaut also talked about the importance of education and hard work to achieving your goals.
During the day, the children enjoyed an all-you-can-eat lunch with Simi Valley Police Officers. This was an important experience for the children, many of whom have had negative perceptions of law enforcement due to their difficult circumstances. The lunch allowed the children to interact with police officers in a positive way, building trust and understanding.
Finally, the children participated in a discussion about life choices and how the choices we make have the power to influence our future as adults. The discussion was led by volunteers who shared their personal stories of overcoming adversity and making positive life choices. The children were encouraged to think about their own future and the choices they can make to achieve their goals.
The experience of building and launching a rocket, meeting a NASA astronaut, enjoying lunch with police officers, and participating in a meaningful discussion about life was a transformative experience for these children. It opened the door to a world that they may not have thought was possible, and it showed them that they have the ability to achieve their dreams despite current circumstances.
Programs like For The Need are crucial to providing children with experiences and opportunities that they may not otherwise have.
For The Need, Executive Director, Dorina Timbol said, “By giving children a chance to participate in unique and engaging experiences, we can help them build the confidence and skills they need to overcome life’s difficult challenges.”
