We are in need of the following art supplies for our Art Therapist to use in the sessions she holds with the youth in our care. If you are able to donate any of these following items, please contact Caitlin Ward at cward@heartsandhomes.org:
- Bristol all-purpose drawing paper
- Crayola Model Magic, 2 lb Tub, White
- Sharpies, all colors
- Acrylic paints (preferably larger jugs)
- Tempera paint
- Spray paint, all colors
- Craft activity sets (tie dye, models, houses, etc.)
- Beads
- Embroidery
Art therapy is a form of expressive therapy that uses the creative process of making art to improve a person’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Expressing one’s self artistically can help people to resolve issues, manage their behaviors, understand their emotions, reduce stress, improve self-esteem, and increase awareness of self and others. This in turn can promote personal development, increase coping skills, and enhance cognitive function.
Art therapists are professionals trained in both art and therapy. They work with the youth in our care to reflect on the underlying messages communicated through their art, thereby aiding in the healing process. Art therapists are knowledgeable about human development, psychological theories, clinical practice, spiritual, artistic traditions, and the healing potential of art.
The week of the project, Hearts & Homes staff members from our central office went to the group home to repair small dents in the walls and do some prep for the next day’s work. Then, on Friday and Saturday, a group of Marines stationed at Fort Meade came and painted the home for us. The Marines, their families, and Hearts & Homes staff members provided a total of 230 hours of labor. To put that in perspective, if a business was doing the job, that would have cost $10,350 just in labor. Paint would have been around $1,000, depending on brand/quality. Including supplies, the total cost would have been right around $12,000.
