This month, the Norwalk Fire Department - Office of Emergency Management has partnered with the American Red Cross of Connecticut/Rhode Island to offer two different programs to help students learn about preparedness in a fun and engaging way. For now, these programs will be offered via Zoom, but the hope is to offer select in-person sessions during the summer, provided COVID-19 case numbers stay low. Based on interest, additional sessions may be scheduled.
Prepare with Pedro is for students in grades K-2, while the Pillowcase Project is for students in grades 3-5. Each session will be offered twice, so families can choose the date and time that works best for them. Each child that registers will receive either a Penguin backpack or a Red Cross pillowcase that can be personalized, as well as an activity book and a few other supplies. Children can use the backpack or pillowcase to build their own safety kit or go-bag in case of an emergency.
With disasters on the rise, more people and households are being affected every day, and kids are among the most vulnerable during and after a disaster. The 2021 Hurricane season begins on June 1, but severe weather can also move in quickly over the summer and be frightening to younger children. Developed by the Red Cross, Prepare with Pedro and the Pillowcase Project are dedicated to helping children understand what to do in emergency situations.
Prepare with Pedro (grades K-2) will be offered on Wednesday, May 26 at 4 p.m. and Saturday, May 29 at 10 a.m.
The Pillowcase Project (grades 3-5) will be offered on Wednesday, May 26 at 5 p.m. and Saturday, May 29 at 11 a.m.
Registration is required for these programs, and residents can sign up at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/youthprepare. The same registration link can be used for any of the sessions. Once registered, a Zoom link and packet pick up information will be emailed to the parent/caregiver.
For questions or additional information, please contact Michele DeLuca at mdeluca@norwalkct.org or (203) 854-0238.