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BluSeed Studios gets grant from Stewart’s for art for at-risk youth

SARANAC LAKE – BluSeed Studios has received a $500 grant from Stewart’s Shops to help fund a series of monthly art projects for the Citizen Advocates Enhanced Mentor Program.

From Thanksgiving through Christmas 2015, Stewart’s customers donated $870,000 to the Stewart’s Holiday Match program, a $100,000 increase over the 2014 season. Those donations were doubled to more than $1.74 million by Stewart’s match. These funds are intended to be used directly for children 10 years or younger in the areas where the Stewart’s shops are located and the money is raised.

The Citizen Advocates Enhanced Mentor Program includes an after-school program and summer youth program for children ages 5 to 12 from the Saranac Lake Central School District. It offers a safe environment to gather with peers and participate in structured activities. These programs serve children who may be struggling in school, dealing with issues at home or facing personal challenges. The goal of the program is to promote academic success, encourage healthy behaviors and nurture positive choices.

Art can be therapeutic, providing children with a healthy outlet for expression, improving self-esteem, reducing anxiety and depression, and potentially resulting in fewer behavioral problems and improved academic performance. BluSeed officials say they have already hosted several art project sessions, and they have been enthusiastically embraced.

“We are confident the program will be a success and are extremely grateful for the funding provided by Stewart’s customers through the Stewarts Holiday Match program,” said BluSeed Studios Director of Development and Communications Michelle Hannon.

“This will help BluSeed Studios purchase art supplies and allow us to plan a wider range of art projects for these kids. From water color pencils and paper to speedball paper and ink for printing projects, it really opens up the possibilities of artistic media we can try.”

“I’m so grateful to Michelle Hannon and BluSeed Studios for hosting our program and offering the opportunity for children to become more active in the community.” said Andrea Palermo, the Citizen Advocates Enhanced Mentor Program Manager. “Every month, we look forward to the projects that BluSeed Studios arranges, and we’re excited to be able to explore new mediums made possible by this grant.”

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