With libraries remaining closed and summer camps moving programs to online platforms, Baltimore’s gaping digital divide will leave many students disconnected throughout the summer. Determined to find a way to provide Baltimore City School students a healthy and creative outlet for self-expression, a collaborative effort of 22 artists and arts organizations organized by the nonprofit, Arts Every Day, set about developing arts-rich experiences for children.

With the goal of reaching 10,000 students, the Baltimore Arts Passport consisting of a booklet and art supply kit was created. Through the booklet, students will “travel” to participating city arts organizations with opportunities to reflect and create through writing, drawing, making, dancing or acting. The supply kits contain a sketchbook, colored pencils, watercolor, and glue stick for students to create independently. Beginning mid-July, the Baltimore Arts Passport will be distributed for free to students at meal sites and through organizations providing emergency services to families throughout the city.

The synergy between the arts and mental health is well documented. Arts interventions are known to support the treatment and management of stress, anxiety, and depression and increase emotional resilience in children and families. After months of social isolation, the Baltimore Arts Passport seeks to provide students a healthy and creative outlet for self-express