Thousands of Seattle residents can get help with everyday costs. The hard part is knowing where to look. A group of young filmmakers found a way to fix that.
Students from the High Point Student Film Club made a new public service announcement, or PSA. The short video shows their neighbors how to find free and low-cost services through one City of Seattle website.
How the Project Started
The Seattle Housing Authority (SHA) received a City of Seattle Digital Navigator grant. The goal was simple. Help residents who are least connected to the internet build the skills to get online. Many of these residents live in homes that SHA owns and runs.
Closing the digital divide helps everyone. When residents feel confident online, they can find jobs, health care, schools, and support programs. Once online, residents can find City of Seattle services and discounts that make life more affordable.
“It can be daunting to know where to go when you need help. The students of the SHA High Point Film Club did a wonderful job highlighting how simple it is to get assistance. The ad is upbeat and inviting, and I can’t wait to see its positive impact on the community!” said Elise Kalstad, Affordable Seattle Manager.
Two Minutes to Real Savings
The PSA points residents to Affordable Seattle. It is a one-stop website. In about two minutes, you can find out how much money you may save. The savings add up fast. The PSA highlights programs like these:
- Free bus passes
- Fresh Bucks to help you buy fruits and vegetables
- Discounts on your utility bills
- Free preschool programs
- Discounts for recreation and parks
- Discounts on internet service
A Film Team Right in the Community
High Point is one of the communities SHA owns and runs. It also has its own film team, the High Point Student Film Club.
This youth program gives high school students hands-on training in digital media. Students learn how to shoot video, record sound, interview people, and edit. Then they use those skills on real projects. They make documentaries, event videos, PSAs, and oral history films that save the stories of their neighborhood.
“For over two years, the High Point Student Film Club has provided young people with a positive, creative outlet to develop real-world skills, connect with their community, and make a meaningful contribution to the neighborhood they call home,” said Melisa Lasell, SHA Digital Navigation Outreach Coordinator. “This project is a wonderful example of how students can use their talents to help their neighbors discover valuable resources and services that can improve their everyday lives.”
SHA’s Digital Navigation team led the club, providing technical guidance and funding student stipends, with additional program support from SHA’s Education Youth and Development team. So, the students gained real experience and at the same time, they built something their own community can use. This is community power in action. Young people learn skills they can use for years. And they make their neighborhood stronger for everyone who lives there.