Penticton youth getting creative in time of crisis

Penticton’s youth are doing their part to make the world a better place.

As the planet struggles with the COVID-19 pandemic, local initiatives have all of us feeling better about the future, and giving us reason to smile.

The heart hunt was organized by Total Restoration, and asked people to put hearts in their windows, encouraging people to drive around and view the creativity. Cherilynn Bull and her young children decided to participate. 

“We’re doing it for the community so that everyone who is in self-isolation can drive around and look for the hearts and do something fun,” said Cherilynn.

“We all painted this, but my mommy drew the lines for me,” offered up four-year-old Heidi, pointing to the hearts on their window.

“This one says ‘Stay Strong’, and this one says ‘Stay Home’,” added Cherilynn. “We want everyone to stay home so this COVID goes away.”

While Heidi is excited about painting hearts, another Penticton youth has formed her own business, and providing random acts of kindness for residents.

Lola Latchford has been making bracelets, then hiding them around Penticton for people to find.

Accompanying the bracelet is the following note.

“My name is Lola. I’m 10 years old. I started my business a year ago. I just want to make people happy. If you find one of my bracelets it means, pass on the kindness.”

And now, Lola is getting return notes from the new owners of one of her personally crafted bracelets.

“This made my day, and that this made them happy,” said the Gr. 5 student at Uplands Elementary, reading from a note a bracelet recipient wrote online.

“Because of what’s happening around the world right now, I just want people to know we’re all in this together,” Lola explained.

All this makes for one proud mother.

“I think what she is doing is wonderful,” said Lindsey Schoenne. “It gives her the confidence she needs as she is a really shy kid. A little girl making a big impact, and it sure makes me a proud mom.” 

In the meantime, make sure you take a close look behind park benches and trees — you just may find one of Lola's bracelets!