The closure of schools is, of course, damaging to children’s education. But schools are not just a place for learning. They are places where kids socialize, develop emotionally and, for some, a refuge from troubled family life. The Dakota Center is such a place of socialization in a healthy, caring, and loving envrioment. I knew a year ago when we locked down the schools it was going to be an issue. Yes, good to be safe, but elementary aged school children in particular were safe to keep in school full time (3ft vs 6ft arguement). The science knew that last summer.
I believe that in 30 years it will be very evident that in 2020 the adults let the children down because the bottom line is when we closed the schools we closed their lives.
For some children who come to the Center, the pandemic has had dire consequences. When the lockdown occurred I prayed for those children because closing the schools and stay-at-home orders have led to a generation of vulnerable children becoming “invisible” to us (including social workers, teachers, other adults etc). Where there is great poverty, there is the unholy toxicity that stalks all ages – domestic abuse, parental drug and alcohol dependency and/or severe mental health issues (all three we knew about in 2020). My greatest fear is this damage will have risen significantly and we will not even be aware until people leave their homes.
It is not hard to image that children who remember this last year will be living with the legacy of the pandemic for “years to come”, particularly those from disadvantaged communities. The Dakota Center will be here in support for all children and senior adults to live healthy, happy, fulfilling lives. We are a community center welcoming back the community. WE ARE OPEN FOR BUSINESS. We are in a great place to be the shining light of hope we have always been. Are you ready to come out?
