Planting seeds of hope: Milwaukee leaders encourage a safe summer for city's youth

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- As the weather gets warmer, local leaders and nonprofits in Milwaukee want kids to know they have safe options for summer activities.

At the St. Charles Annual Safe Summer Event, families and community leaders built a support system for Milwaukee's youth.

Milwaukee is better and safer together, that’s what Angelique Montgomery wants her kids to know.

“I brought my family to the safe program,” said Montgomery. “What they think is fun is not fun for everyone else.”

That's why she and other families are kicking off summer at St. Charles’s annual family event.

“It’s something easy for the parents to ease their mind that their child is out doing something positive instead of getting into trouble all the time,” said Montgomery.

It’s a place for kids to be kids and more importantly, know they aren’t alone.

“One of the most critical things that's happening in our society today and those groups more than ever need assistance,” said Mike Umhoefer with St. Charles Youth and Family Services. “Everybody should seek services if they need them and have a safe summer.”

Whether it's spending time painting or playing or even planting seeds of growth at the new garden of hope, St. Charles' staff say no matter your age, help is always available.

“Just different places that gives you different resources that can help you out in the community,” said Montgomery.