New Program Aims To Build Community And Provide Resources To Minority Families

 A new program aims to build community by having parents and children spend time together at city parks. "Play at the Parks," a series of events that started this summer, focuses on activities and resources for minority families.

The July 22 event at Lacy Park had dozens of families and lots of smiles. Organizers told News On 6 playtime is important for children's development and the mental health of all family members.

11-year-old Amber Alfaro enjoyed quality time at Lacy Park with her mom and brother.

"I see a lot of kids having fun, and I don't know, I just like it here,” said Alfaro. “There's just so many things to do here."

Preetiben Dave, who is a mother of three and a teacher, said this program takes the stress off working families.

"If I had to make a plan for my own, I would keep delaying, 'Oh, like we can do it tomorrow,'” said Dave. “But this is already programmed. 'OK, let's go out and have fun and have our family time together."

The free events include activities that focus on children's development, music, food, and resources. The Community Service Council, City of Tulsa, Birth Through Eight Strategy for Tulsa and Food on the Move collaborate to organize the series of events.

Families leave with a bag of information: Resources for mental health, food pantry, vaccinations, and more.

"Mental health would be one of the main concerns under COVID pandemic and how we can break the stigma to talk about mental health, how we can provide information and resources in their own language,” said Maria Elena Kuykendall with Community Service Council.

Omare Jimmerson with Tulsa City Parks said this program helps staff better serve minority families.

"Them not speaking out or feeling uncomfortable coming to the forefront and also dealing with the language barriers sometimes as well,” explained Jimmerson. “So, using other community partners to hear their voices is also important."

The next "Play at the Parks" event is on August 7th at Gathering Place.

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