Youth Programs
Dear Editor: I recently attended two meetings in Sitka that have affected me deeply: the Youth Advocates of Sitka application to buy property on Halibut Point Road before the Sitka Planning Commission; and the presentation by Officer Ryan Browning of the Homer, Alaska Police Department, regarding ‘‘Parenting in the Digital Age.’’
The permit for Youth Advocates was denied due to a “unified dissent of the neighborhood.” Most feared the presence of these young people would make it unsafe for children and the elderly. The program is for ages 16-21 who are at-risk of or have experienced homelessness and trafficking. The seller of the house and many community members (including me) supported the permit request stating that youths are victims not criminals and are casualties of circumstances, and, with supervision, not a menace to our community.
The other meeting was Police Officer Browning who shared Alaskan statistics and heart-breaking testimonies. A compelling presentation for us all. Today’s technology is a catalyst for exposing our children to enticing images and dangerous predators like never before in the history of mankind. Cyber-bullying, sexting, sextortion (to mention a few) cross all socio-economic cultures. The result is every child is at risk and suicides, depression and drugs are on the rise.
My heart goes out to the young families of today who are trying to “control” this influence and protect their children. Is there something we-all can do to help? Here’s a few thoughts I had. Mentor a young family. Volunteer to teach someone who has been trafficked to cook, manage money, etc. Youth programs: Dispel the fear and open your hearts and neighborhoods and love on them. Pray diligently for them. Think for a moment of the consequences of NOT doing anything.
Mary Stevens, Sitka
Fundraising for Ukraine
Dear Editor:Thank you soooo much everybody! To the friends and family that baked and to all the people that bought and donated money at the bake sale.
Thank you for helping me raise over $2,000. We are donating all of it to help the kids of Ukraine. I love living in Sitka, there are so many nice people!
Ryker Goddard, Sitka
