OKLAHOMA CAPITOL -- Entries are being sought for a statewide art contest for children being raised by grandparents or other relatives. The competition, sponsored by the Oklahoma Department of Human Services’ Aging Services Division and AARP Oklahoma, is a part of the state’s annual celebration of Grandparents’ Week in Oklahoma.

Each September, grandparents are honored for the important role they play in the lives of their grandchildren. OKDHS takes this opportunity to honor the special contributions of those grandparents who are raising their grandchildren by sponsoring a statewide conference focusing on the needs of these families.

Through a special competition called “My Family Portrait … An Ever-Changing Picture,” children are being invited to use an artistic medium to depict what makes their family special, said Claire Dowers, programs field representative, Aging Services Division, OKDHS, who is coordinating the competition.

“Grandparents are asked to write a short narrative to accompany the art in an effort to give the grandparents the opportunity to share with others their experiences and needs arising out of this experience,” Dowers said.

AARP Oklahoma is providing savings bonds that will be awarded in several categories based on the children’s ages. Completed artwork and narratives must be submitted by Aug. 15, 2004. Entries should be sent to OKDHS Aging Services, Attention: Claire Dowers, 2401 N.W.23, Suite 40, Oklahoma City, 73107-2413.

Entries must include the name and phone number of the grandparents, as well as the first name and age of the child. Confidentially will be maintained.

Artwork and narratives will be on display Sept. 8, 2004, at the State Capitol during a statewide rally to heighten awareness of the growing needs of grandfamilies (families headed by grandparents) in Oklahoma, as well as throughout the nation.

For more information, interested persons are encouraged to contact Dowers at 405-522-3074 or via e-mail at Claire.Dowers@OKDHS.org.

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