High Priority Areas!

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Salina Area United Way
P.O. Box 355
Salina, KS 67402-0355
(785) 827-1312

Nurturing Children & Youth

"Culture" is more than the food people eat or the clothing they wear. Culture is part of what forms people's attitudes, identities, and day-to-day behavior. Culture involves music, language, literature, customs, traditions, religous beliefs, environment, history, and self-image. The different way people meet their basic needs (for food, clothing, shelter, and companionship) may be based on their culture. Members of a cultural group share experiences that connect them to each other and shape the way they think and live.
According to Maribel Panuco, Hispanic Program Services Coordinator for Catholic Charities, it is sometimes years before children feel comfortable going to school in a new culture. Not only is the whole school system different but children face every day changes that many of us may not think of. Even something as mundane as lunch can be a daunting cultural change for a child. Children often do not recognize the food and may refuse to eat because they are unfamiliar with it. We often take for granted simple things in our everyday lives that people from other cultures may not understand.
It is important to teach children to appreciate other cultures, so they're better able to respect and accept people who are different from themselves. "One way that our children can help someone new feel comfortable is as simple as introducing themselves and getting to know them," said Maribel.

Contact Catholic Charities at
(785) 825-0208,
425 W. Iron, Salina, KS

Salina Area United Way...
Improves Lives and Strengthens the Community through Leadership, Partnership, and Investment!