In July, three family assistants from the Jēkabpils Municipality Social Service participated in a strawberry masterclass alongside three mothers, children, and two young women at the “Bērzi” farm in Zasas Parish, according to information published by the Jēkabpils Municipality Social Service. The gathering aimed to strengthen families, foster mutual cooperation, build practical skills, and create a positive shared experience.
Farm Welcome and Strawberry Picking at “Bērzi” Farm
Participants received a warm welcome from Ligita Kalniņa, the owner of the “Bērzi” farm, who invited the families to pick strawberries themselves and gifted 10 kilograms of berries for a joint jam-making session. The Jēkabpils Municipality Social Service expressed gratitude to farm owner Ligita for her responsiveness, hospitality, and contribution to supporting local families. The strawberry field carried a true summer atmosphere as children picked berries with enthusiasm, mothers and young women joined the work, and family assistants stood close by to encourage and support participants while enjoying fresh berries.
Jam Preparation at Viesītes Day Center
Following the farm visit, the group traveled to the Viesītes Day Center to prepare strawberry jam together. Everyone joined in the process by washing and cleaning berries, boiling the jam, filling jars, and tidying up the workspace. According to the social service, the most important aspect of the day was the shared teamwork rather than the individual output.
Did You Know? Farm owner Ligita Kalniņa gifted 10 kilograms of strawberries from the “Bērzi” farm in Zasas Parish to support the group’s joint jam-making session at the Viesītes Day Center.
Building Community Support and Future Masterclasses
For the social service family assistants, the outing served as an opportunity to strengthen family relationships, build trust, foster cooperation, and generate positive emotions. Social work practice shows that a child’s development is primarily shaped by the family, while a family’s strength grows through both its members and a supportive community. These initiatives demonstrate to families that they are not alone and that neighboring individuals want to help.
This practical skills masterclass is the first of several planned sessions moving forward. The upcoming masterclass series is designed to give families opportunities to learn and refine everyday practical skills, strengthen parenting competencies, encourage children’s involvement in hands-on activities, and promote cooperation among families.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who organized the strawberry masterclass in July?
Three family assistants from the Jēkabpils Municipality Social Service organized the outing, which included three mothers, children, and two young women.
Where did the participants pick the strawberries?
Participants picked strawberries at the “Bērzi” farm located in Zasas Parish, hosted by farm owner Ligita Kalniņa.
What is the future plan for these masterclasses?
The practical skills masterclass is the first in a planned series of sessions intended to help families learn everyday skills, strengthen parental competencies, and foster cooperation.
What are your thoughts on how community-based workshops impact family development?
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