Krafty Kids Uses Art And Science To Support Underserved Youth At Half Moon Bay Event

HALF MOON BAY, CA — Local families gathered at the ALAS Cultural Wellness Center September 11 for a free evening combining STEAM education, art activities and health services.

The event was organized by Krafty Kids, a youth-founded nonprofit established by Bay Area high school student Maya Panchal, in partnership with Ayudando Latinos a Soñar, community physicians and nurses, and the Los Altos High School Robotics Team.

Panchal founded Krafty Kids to make creative arts and STEAM education more accessible to children, particularly those in underserved communities.

“We are incredibly grateful to Maya for choosing ALAS to help carry out her mission,” said Dr. Kelly Delaney, education program director at ALAS. “Her dedication to bringing accessible, high-quality STEAM learning to our Coastside families perfectly aligns with our vision of uplifting the community through education and holistic support.”

During the evening, children designed custom tote bags, made origami pinwheels and participated in a hair tinsel station. Families also contributed hand-tracing artwork to a collaborative ALAS Community Tree.

The Los Altos High School Robotics Team demonstrated a live interactive robot, introducing students to basic engineering and technology concepts.

Volunteer physicians and nurses provided preventive health services, including blood pressure checks and nutrition guidance.

The event also reflected Panchal’s broader focus on using art to support children facing difficult circumstances. She has conducted workshops at local homeless shelters, including through LifeMoves in Mountain View, working with children who have experienced trauma and other adverse childhood experiences. Panchal said she sees art as a way for young people to express emotions and connect with others.

“This event was designed to inspire curiosity and support the overall wellness of participating families,” Panchal said. “Seeing parents and children from the Coastside community come together to create art, discover robotics, and connect with health professionals side-by-side exceeded our highest expectations.”

Krafty Kids plans to expand its partnerships across the Bay Area and bring similar educational and wellness programs to other underserved communities.

More information is available at Krafty Kids.