by Sarahi Perez
Earlier this month, La Casa hosted a special study break event bringing together residents from La Casa Student Housing and Casa Maravilla, a senior living development, for the Feast of La Candelaria.
According to La Casa staff, this was the most unique study break in the history of La Casa. Moms and abuelitas from the community came to share their tamale recipes and pass on a cultural tradition to students. These study breaks at La Casa Student Resource Center are vital for students well being because it gives them an opportunity to destress while participating in fun activities.
Veronica Reyes, TRP’s Community Organizing Research and Policy Associate, partcipated in this event with her mom Natalia Reyes. Participating students were attentive and excited to learn as senior residents of Casa Maravilla explained what the feast of La Candelaria is and why it’s celebrated.
“My favorite part was getting to spend time with everyone and meeting the sweet women from Casa Maravilla,” said Jose Flores, a student and resident at La Casa.
Students were able to interact and learn how to make tamales with the help of some amazing women from Casa Maravilla and staff from La Casa.
“I am so happy for the invitation because it made us feel useful to be able to share a little of ourselves with the youth while also learning and taking a little bit of their youthfulness with us,” said Alicia, a senior resident at Casa Maravilla.
Many of the student who participated are away from their families and these types of events make their stay at La Casa more enjoyable. It gives them an opportunity to grow together and develop stronger connections with their fellow residents.
“It is exciting to be able to do these types of activities where our moms and grandparents can come in and share something with our students.” said Maria Bucio, Director of La Casa Student Housing. “They are able to pass on cultural traditions and I look forward to hosting more events like this in the future.”
Maria and all the residents and staff at La Casa are thankful for Veronica Reyes, Natalia Reyes, Armando Reyes, Lupe Raymundo and the residents of Casa Maravilla who shared their time and wisdom.
Learn more about La Casa Student Housing…
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