A Special Visit from the Racine Zoo

Racine zoo x HALO

At HALO, we believe that providing a path to self-sufficiency involves more than just a roof and a bed—it involves creating moments of joy, learning, and connection for the families who call our facility home.

On March 19, 2026, our hallways were filled with excitement as we welcomed the team from the Racine Zoo for a special collaborative event. Bringing a touch of the natural world indoors, the zoo staff led an engaging session focused on one of nature’s most resilient plants: the cactus.

Learning and Growing The morning began with a wonderful storytelling session. As the children gathered around, they were treated to a reading of "The Mitten," a classic tale that emphasizes themes of community and making room for others—values we hold dear here at HALO.

Following the story, it was time to get to work! Each child had the opportunity to become a miniature gardener. Under the guidance of the zoo experts, they learned how cacti are built to survive and thrive in tough conditions. Using specialized potting mix and colorful pots, every participant potted their very own cactus to keep and care for.

Why These Moments Matter For children experiencing homelessness, the opportunity to engage in "normal" childhood activities—like a school-style assembly or a craft project—is vital for their developmental and emotional well-being. These activities offer:

  • A Sense of Ownership: Caring for a living plant teaches responsibility and gives a child something of their very own to nurture.

  • Educational Enrichment: Hands-on science and literacy activities keep young minds active and curious.

  • Stress Relief: The simple act of working with soil and plants is a proven way to reduce anxiety and provide a creative outlet.

A Community Effort We are incredibly grateful to the Racine Zoo for their time, their expertise, and the beautiful plants they donated. It is through these local partnerships that HALO is able to provide a holistic, supportive environment for our residents.

Just like the cacti the children planted, our residents show incredible strength and resilience every day. With the continued support of the Racine community, we are helping them find the "soil" they need to take root and grow toward a brighter future.

Interested in partnering with HALO for a volunteer event? Visit our Contact Us page.

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