Fresh from the Youth Services Desk of the Howland Public Library, a press release for an anti-bullying, Valentine letter-writing event you won’t want to miss:

Beacon… Valentine love is in the air, and what better way to show caring and kindness, than using your words to make someone feel better? Students in grades 1-12 are invited to the Make A Friend/Be A Friend Party at Howland Public Library on Saturday, February 15, from 1 to 3 pm, hosted by the Library and Be A Friend Project. First, be a friend by writing a letter or creating a picture of support for a child who has been bullied. All kids and teens have the power to help a peer heal through empathic words and art.

Being “Friend Strong”

Materials will be supplied to make a card or letter of support for 13-year-old Rachael from North Carolina who needs to know she is “FRIEND STRONG” as she recovers from severe physical, verbal and social bullying. You can make a difference through empathic words and art and let Rachael know that she matters and is important.

About The Be A Friend Project

The national, nonprofit Be A Friend Project sends surprise letters of peer support called “Friend Mail" to young victims of bullying to help them stay strong and know they are not alone. Since its inception in 2015, the Be A Friend Project has delivered over 22,000 letters, bringing transformational peer support to Friend Mail recipients and, at the same time, giving as many school-age writers and artists the opportunity to show off their kindness and build empathy by stepping into the shoes of a peer and offering support.

Make A Dog

Next, make your way into the Youth Room and Make a Friend by stuffing your own plush Dalmatian dog with a heart (while supplies last) to take home with you to love. One will also be sent to our friend Rachael.

Drop-In

This is a drop-in program so no registration is necessary. For information, please contact Ginny at youth@beaconlibrary.org or (845) 831-1134, extension 103. For information on the Be A Friend Project and Rachael’s story, please visit www.beafriendproject.org and "All About Be a Friend Project" on YouTube.