The Landing Place has submitted the following information:

In these uncertain times, the feeling of being connected is more important than ever as we struggle to find ways to keep real person to person connections while also following important guidance for keeping ourselves and our loved ones safe.

The first 15 weeks of the pandemic saw The Landing Place (TLP), along with all of the programs at Knox County Homeless Coalition (KCHC), working around the clock to keep all individuals and families they work with connected. This took the form of outbound deliveries of not only lifesaving supplies like food and cleaning supplies, but also items like journals and hula hoops, because of the organization’s commitment to the belief in psychological and emotional support being equally as lifesaving as physical safety and economic security. These outbound deliveries will continue to youth through TLP and to individuals and families through KCHC programs.

In recognition of this need for connection and support, during the remainder of July and August The Landing Place will be offering Backyard Summertime Programs that will align with CDC best practice protocols and recommendations from the Governor’s office. These activities are free, and available to a maximum of 10 participants on a first come first served basis on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. The activities are designed for middle and high school age students see schedule below:

Tuesday, 12-4 p.m.: COLLABORATIVE HANDS-ON PROJECTS & LAWN SPORTS

Wednesday, 12- 4 p.m.: WALKING • BIKING • SKATEBOARDING • FIELD TRIPS

Thursday, 12-4 p.m.: BACKYARD TRANQUILITY (i.e. Art, Yoga, Meditation, Small-Group Discussions, Lemonade & Cucumber Water, etc.)

Prepared meals from Knox County Summer Meals Program as well as pantry food, toiletries, and other supplies are available for youth to take home at each session.

To find out more about the Backyard Summertime Programs call: 207-466-9285, or email: kselberg@thelandingplaceme.org.

To learn more about our comprehensive approach to breaking cycles of poverty and homelessness in the community visit us at homehelphope.org.

About The Landing Place, the Comprehensive Youth Program of Knox County Homeless Coalition

Located in the heart of downtown Rockland, The Landing Place is KCHC’s comprehensive youth program supporting highly resilient and often marginalized young people living in Midcoast Maine. Using trauma-informed, strength-based, and restorative practices, The Landing Place aims to break cycles of poverty by compassionately supporting local youth who are at high-risk of experiencing different types of adversity, such as unstable housing, food insecurity, insufficient access to resources and supplies, personal conflicts, and other barriers that make it difficult for youth to realize personal aspirations.

Since opening our doors to local youth in 2017, The Landing Place has emerged as a hub for inspired collaboration and become known as a steady presence not only for youth and families seeking acceptance and support, but also for community members who are interested in giving back.