Announcing Balance Boxes, A New Program Created To Help Kids In Chicago

Free To Run Foundation’s Chicago Teen Ambassador, Samantha, and her friend Sydney recently formed Balance Boxes, an initiative to provide disadvantaged kids in the Chicago area with boxes containing educational and fun activities. The idea hatched and grew while the two high school students were at home during the pandemic, wondering how they could serve their community by helping kids impacted by the closure of schools. Once the pandemic subsides, the goal is to distribute the boxes to schools throughout the Chicago area, who will match the boxes with the children. In just the first month of operating, Balance Boxes received numerous donations from companies and organizations, helping them to amass over 200 boxes that will be delivered this summer.

Each box is created with a theme, such as dinosaurs, princesses, science, etc. This is done to ensure the boxes can be made to each child's liking. Boxes can include anything from a book, educational game to school supplies. Along with the educational factors, each child will receive a toy, art project or game. Each kit is also equipped with an easy to make meal and yummy snack to keep the child engaged in the activity. Balance Boxes find the perfect balance between enjoyable and educational and will put a smile on a child's face!

For more information including how to make monetary or item donations, visit Balance Boxes online at https://www.freetorunfoundation.org/balanceboxes.