In addition to the stress of remote schooling and social isolation, Caleb was facing limited parental support, cramped living conditions, lack of technology access and pressure at home to help with his younger siblings. Caleb felt angry and out of control. Luckily, he found a lifeline in a United Way funded summer program that provided a supportive group of mentors and peers. Caleb received technology lessons, healthy food to take home to his family, and time outside to engage in healthy physical activity. In addition, Caleb received a stipend for participating in the program that helped support his family during this tough time. The best part was that Caleb no longer felt alone; he was interacting with other young people with similar struggles. Participating in this program improved Caleb’s physical and mental health and helped him develop a sense of pride in himself and connection to his community.
