826 MSP'S Programs Temporarily Closed

Dear 826 MSP community, 

“Hope is with the sun, the sky, the sunshine, the book...”

-From “Hope is the Thing” by Warda, 826 MSP young author 

When I feel lost, as I’m sure many of us are feeling right now, I turn to words. Today, I turned to the words of Warda, and was reminded that even in these uncertain times, hope is the thing. Please read the updates below on how our organization is responding to the COVID 19 pandemic, and where we are finding our hope at this moment. 

Yesterday, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz ordered school closures across our state. Following this guidance, and the actions of Minneapolis Public Schools, 826 MSP will be suspending all of our programming as of today, March 16. This closure will be in effect until April 6, at which time we will reassess the situation and update our community. Our staff will be in the office today and tomorrow to support students and families in transitioning to the closure of schools. On Wednesday, March 18, our staff will start working remotely, and our center will be temporarily closed. 

Although our programming is changing in response to COVID 19, our belief that writing is a powerful tool for processing experiences, building community, and transforming the world remains unwavering. At a time when many of the most vulnerable students in our district will be out of school and with limited access to learning opportunities and basic services, we are committed to being the best partner we can be to the students, families, and schools we serve. As an example of this, currently our Writers’ Room is functioning as a space for a food drive to support the South High School community.

To our entire community, but especially our young authors, please know that your voice is so important in this moment, and we will do everything we can to amplify your words. To that end, we will begin offering online resources and writing prompts for Twin Cities students soon. If you are a parent or student who would like to learn more about these opportunities and are not already receiving our announcements, you can sign up for our newsletter here. 

Like so many non-profit organizations, we are grateful for the continued generosity of the individuals who sustain our work — during times of both robust growth as well as unforeseen challenges. As we remind ourselves that hope is the thing in this challenging time, we appreciate your ongoing support of our work to empower the next generation of Twin Cities authors.

Sincerely,

Samantha Sencer-Mura 

826 MSP Executive Director