SMART launched the innovative “Art to Go for Meals on Wheels” project in June as a response to the world wide Covid-19 pandemic, and cancellation of its seven annually sponsored events. The Board of Directors, understanding the positive healing power of art continues with the focused mission of “Using Art to Empower and Inspire”.

Since launching in June, SMART’s Art to Go project currently serves 74 individuals receiving Meals on Wheels in Sawyer and Bayfield Counties.

As we live more isolated and socially distanced, SMART is working with regional organizations and sponsors to provide “Art to Go” packets for Meals on Wheels recipients. Our goal is to help connect and provide stimulating creative activities for stay-at-home seniors and citizens with varying disabilities.

The “Art to Go” packet consists of a vinyl pocket folder, coloring pencils, sharpener, a four-page flyer with an original SMART drawing to color, word find puzzle, a diary and doodle page with an inspirational quote. The materials in the packet are designed to give seniors and caregivers hope, lower stress, provide stimulation through problem solving, decision making, and socialization. The activity is designed to be shared with socially distanced family, friends, and community to provide something positive, and tangible to look forward to weekly. Additionally, “Art to Go” completed projects may be posted on the SMART online gallery and Facebook page.

Facilitating partners on this project include: Hayward Senior Resource Center, and Bayfield County Aging and Disability Resource Center of the North, and the CORE corporation of Washburn, WI. Sponsors to date include: Norvado, Cable/Hayward Area Regional Arts Council, Cable Chamber of Commerce, Hayward Area Chamber of Commerce, Youth Conservation Alliance, and Beehive Botanicals.

For more information contact Sara Balbin at info@sarabalbin.com .