Finding small moments of joy can be challenging during trying times.
But third-year Arts & Science student Patricia Huang wants to bring a little bit of cheer to the U of T community.
“A lot of students have been cooped up at home lately because of COVID-19 and I thought an alternative form of entertainment could be a nice change of pace for those who may want it,” says Huang, a sociology and criminology major and member of Victoria College.
That alternative form of entertainment? The True Blue: Book of Things to Do, a homemade booklet with games and activities themed around the University of Toronto, that includes a word search, writing activity, maze, colouring page and even a paper craft with a special nod to a Sidney Smith Hall institution. Hint: it might have the best poutine on campus.
“I’ve always enjoyed drawing as a hobby and the inside jokes at U of T create a sense of community,” says Huang. “Put them together and you get the True Blue: Book of Things to Do!”
A lifelong artist, Huang says it took her about a week to create the booklet from start to finish while also working on assignments and readings for class.
But more than just a form of entertainment, the booklet is also a way for Huang to give back to the front-line teams working hard to battle COVID-19 in Toronto.
The booklet is offered as a pay-what-you-want digital download, and Huang is donating all proceeds to Sunnybrook Hospital until April 13 — after that it will be available for free.
“There’s been a lot of news about the challenges medical staff are facing due to a shortage of supplies for treating COVID-19 and holding a fundraiser for donations would help ensure the front-line teams have the tools and equipment they need to serve our community,” says Huang. “During these uncertain times, it’s important that we support them by providing any assistance we can, and Sunnybrook is one of many hospitals that needs our help.”
And Huang has been blown away by the support she’s received from faculty and students.
“Students have been commenting on how cute this idea is and how great it is to be supporting Sunnybrook. Some have shown me their completed activity pages, and I’m glad to know that people are enjoying it,” says Huang.
But Huang says she’s just hoping the U of T community is able to have fun and de-stress with the activity booklet during these hard times.
“Even if somebody may find that this isn’t entirely for them, they may know somebody who is interested, and the booklet gets passed around. It’s a neat way to spread positivity from one student to another and boost morale in a domino effect way.”