The Early Learning Hub of Clackamas County is once again launching the “Make a Splash!” children’s free rain boot program through Oct. 25, 2019, or while supplies last. This program will provide free Oaki rain boots to children ages 6 and younger who qualify for income assistance programs.
“Playing outside, rain or shine, helps children develop their imaginations, fine and gross motor skills, scientific thinking, and problem solving,” said Chelsea Hamilton, Early Learning Program Planner for Clackamas County’s Children, Family & Community Connections Division.
Early Learning Hub officials at the county approached Oaki, about the need of young children for rain boots for young children in Clackamas County. The Vancouver-based company agreed to partner for this program and have been instrumental in its success.
In a statement, Oaki expressed the importance of being outdoors in children’s development: “We believe exploration and exposure to our natural environment will open doors to greater possibilities for learning. Outdoor gear allows children to explore their natural environment, while staying safe and dry.”
The Early Learning Hub of Clackamas County is an organized group of people supporting children, prenatally through 6 years, and their families. There are 16 Early Learning Hubs in Oregon that collaborate with early childhood programs to translate the research on early development into result-oriented interventions and programs.
One of the Hub’s goals is for children to be supported to enter school ready to succeed, and “Make a Splash” is one of many programs that offer children that opportunity.
Families who live in Clackamas County with children ages 6 and younger that qualify for any income-assistance program are eligible for free rain boots. The qualifying programs include:
• Oregon Trail card
• OHP/CHIP
• Section 8
• WIC/eWIC card
• Free/reduced school lunch
• TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
• Head Start
Community partners serving eligible families can submit a request form on their behalf. The Early Learning Hub will coordinate the delivery of the boots to the partnering organizations and distribution to families.
Apply for free rain boots and find a pick up location at https://makeasplashclackam.wixsite.com/boots. For more information, please email makeasplashclackamas@gmail.com or call 503-650-5682.