Students can donate through the Color Me Mine studio in Provo for Grandfamilies, a program supporting families that care for a relative’s child.
The 2010 Census reported 82,820 Utah children are being raised by relatives of their biological parents. The Grandfamilies program provides education and support to help the child and the caretaking relative overcome challenges.
Sarah Williamson, Utah County Grandfamilies coordinator, said the ultimate goal for this program is the children’s safety and security.
“These activities give them opportunities to figure out how to [have security] in a positive way,” Williamson said.
Noelle Pitcher, Orem resident, has been working with Grandfamilies Program of Utah County.
“Right now we are a really small organization here in Utah Valley,” Pitcher said. “But we are getting bigger.”
Grandfamilies of Utah County was established in February and is a branch of the Grandfamilies program in Salt Lake City. The Grandfamilies program provides services such as crisis intervention, child and adult support groups, links to community resources and drug and alcohol prevention courses for children.
As part of her duties, Pitcher contacts local businesses for contributions for financial assistance.
“I was looking for a donation from Color Me Mine, and they offered to sponsor our whole activity,” Pitcher said. “Now the community can do something fun and help out these families.”
Color Me Mine in Provo agreed to donate $5 from each participant’s studio fee today to Grandfamilies. Next week there will be a specific activity for Grandfamilies members, at the Color Me Mine studio.
Brett Sorensen, owner of Color Me Mine and Orem resident, said they are looking forward to having people come and support the Grandfamilies program.
“Every painter that comes in is making a donation of $5 that is coming from our studio fees,” Sorensen said.
Encouraging people to come, Sorensen said this a great alternative to BYU students’ regular date nights. All the money donated will go toward the Grandfamilies participants’ monthly activities. Sorensen has also donated Oct. 12 for a special “Grandfamily night,” at which children and family members will be able to dress up in costumes and get treats in preparation for Halloween.
“I really liked what they stood for and their organization,” Sorensen said. “We were going to provide a family night for them anyway.”
Color Me Mine will be open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and is at 5033 N. Edgewood Drive, next to the shops at the Riverwoods. To volunteer or donate to Grandfamilies, contact them through email at .
