Teaming With My Daughter To Make A Difference

Do you remember your mother or father taking you to the store for back-to-school shopping? I can still vividly recall the joy of picking out my first Trapper Keeper, strawberry shortcake lunchbox and yellow No.2 pencils while holding my mom’s hand as we navigated the aisles. Those shiny, new items symbolized more than just school supplies—they were tokens of potential and self-expression, sparking a sense of anticipation and excitement.
 
Now, imagine children and teens in Massachusetts impacted by homelessness that do not have this same childhood experience?
 
In today’s world and especially these last few years, children’s mental health is more crucial than ever. My daughter Alex and I are trying to make a heartwarming difference. Together, we have created a series of affirmation cards designed to empower and uplift children, one positive message at a time. Affirmation cards create calmness, confidence, and self-love.
 
We envision our affirmation cards as a new kind of essential tool added to backpacks as well as being used by staff in school systems. These cards are more than just pieces of cardboard; they are daily reminders of each child’s worth, strength, and potential. Each card is crafted with love and care, featuring vibrant designs and powerful affirmations to help children face their days with confidence and positivity.
 
Creating these cards has been a deeply personal and joyful journey for us. I openly share my own struggles with mental health as a teen. I encountered bullying, low self-worth, depression and anxiety which then led to a suicide attempt. Alex and I have poured our hearts into every detail, hoping to provide children and teens with a tool that can brighten their days and strengthen their mental resilience. Our goal is to offer a bit of sunshine and encouragement, especially for those moments when they might need it the most.
 
We are asking for your help to fulfill our mission of filling 10,000 backpacks with packs of affirmation cards. We are teaming with School on Wheels of Massachusetts, a non-profit organization that provides, backpacks, school supplies and mentoring services to children in Massachusetts impacted by homelessness.
 
To learn more about how you can become involved, please go to www.lpvibes.com and scroll to the bottom of our homepage.
 
To learn more about School on Wheels please go to www.sowma.org
 
Let us make a difference together!
 
Lisa and Alex Ponte