FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 30, 2014

CONTACT: Peter Van Delft
(617) 704-6682

SHERIFF TOMPKINS ATTENDS ART EXHIBITION IN SUPPORT OF THE ITALIAN HOME FOR CHILDREN

Sheriff Tompkins stands with teacher Christine Hajjar of the Italian Home for Children in front of a banner made by artists in the exhibition.

Suffolk County Sheriff Steven W. Tompkins recently visited the Italian Home for Children in Jamaica Plain to attend art exhibition the program’s young participants.

Artists created various pieces of artwork ranging from self–portraits, collages and mosaics, to robots and even a large dragon – all of which were created primarily from recycled items.

Art teacher Christine Hajjar led Sheriff Tompkins on a tour to see the artwork, which was spread throughout the facility.

Sheriff Tompkins, speaking about the artwork that he saw during his visit, was effusive in his praise.

“These kids obviously worked very hard on their projects,” said Sheriff Tompkins. “I’m glad they’re being given the opportunity to express themselves in ways that are both positive and productive. Ms. Hajjar is very passionate about the work that she does with them, and that support is crucial, especially for kids who are dealing with very challenging situations in their lives. I commend the Italian Home for Children for the work that they’re doing with the youth. Sometimes these little opportunities are all that is needed to get and keep someone walking on the right path.”

The Italian Home for Children exists to help children and their families thrive through progressive programs with core values that include: protecting the rights of children; promoting the highest standards of education, care and treatment for children; supporting and preserving the relationship between a child and his/her family and community; accepting the family system as the one in which the child is most likely to succeed; assisting children and families in all efforts that promote a healthy reintegration at the earliest possible time; and existing as a resource for children and families irrespective of race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, religion or national origin.

For more information about the Italian Home for Children, visit: www.italianhome.org.

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