Throughout the past weeks, we have seen an outpouring of support. Recently, our community has stepped up with meals and art kits which truly personify the meaning behind the phrase “The City of Good Neighbors.”
Haven House received a special donation of food from Stock The Freezer, an organization started by Nick Pitillo and the owners of Osteria 166 and Villagio to assist the WNY community during the Covid-19 pandemic. This gift is a way for Tina Gurbacki, part-owner of Osteria 166, to honor the memory of her mother, Becky Slocum. Ms. Slocum was an employee of Haven House in the 90’s and even after she left, she kept the shelter near to her heart. Haven House is one of many locations that Stock the Freezer has donated to during the Covid-19 pandemic. When asked what these donations mean to her, Gurbacki replied, “I am blessed to be able to help those in need and our staff.” The donation of several trays of a variety of pastas, salads and desserts were well received by the staff at Haven House and greatly appreciated.
As we continue in quarantine, making certain our children have plenty to keep them engaged (outside of schoolwork) has been of great concern. A donation of art supplies from the Albright Knox’s Art Truck Program arrived just in time! The kits, assembled by Art Truck Program Coordinator Vicente Rondon and volunteers, included various art making supplies such as drawing paper, construction paper, card stock, Crayola Washable Markers and crayons, magic clay and instructions for a simple art activity that can be found on the Albright Knox website. These kits have also been delivered to a host of community organizations either by request or direct donation. Mr. Rondon feels that keeping art alive during a potentially traumatic experience is important because it allows individuals the opportunity to continue creating and expressing themselves. He believes that art helps children establish a better understanding of their emotions, as well as improve their cognitive abilities. In Mr. Rondon’s words, “Art is necessary, and it’s beautiful to see people embracing it openly.” If you are looking for tips and suggestions on art projects for your little ones, visit the Albright Knox website, where you will find a list of family activities that parents can use.