At the Newark Center for Creative Learning, holiday
crafts are being made to help victims of Hurricane Mitch
Small wooden homes dot the worktable. Their exteriors are as varied and creative as the imaginations of their creators.
Some bear the markings of weathered winters. Others are rich in color, as vibrant green trees climb the walls and hug the rooftops.
The architecture in miniature is being custom-painted and sold by students at the Newark Center for Creative Learning. Money earned from these homes will help others who have lost their own.
"The children are very aware of the (October) devastation in Honduras and Nicaragua caused by Hurricane Mitch," said teacher Ann Brown, a co-founder of the school. "Something like one-third of the housing was destroyed in Honduras by the hurricane, and their school system has been shut down."
"Our children wanted to help."
Despite their tender ages of 9 to 14, the youngsters understand the devastation of losing a house.
"Just think of yourself getting literally blown out of your home," said Molly, 11. "It would just be horrible."
During their free time, the students gather around the art table, push up their shirt sleeves and grab paintbrushes.
"They give up their lunch and break to work on this project," Brown said.
Great care is taken with every stroke of the brush. Paint is carefully applied to the tiny buildings. Nearly 100 complete houses fill one end of the workstation. There will be more that 200 when they're finished.
"It's great to be able to create and personalize each house," said David, 11. "And it's even more fun knowing that you're helping people."News Journal 12-98
