Contest Aims To Encourage Stonington Area Kids To Wear Masks​

STONINGTON, CT — A new contest from S.H.A.R.E. aims to make masks more than just a mandate for children when they return to school in the fall in the Stonington area.

In an email to Patch, a spokesperson for S.H.A.R.E. (Stonington Helps Area Residents in Emergency) spokesperson said one goal of the contest is to help kids who haven't been regularlyrequired to wear masks get used to the arduous task, and maybe even make it fun.

In a release, S.H.A.R.E. said contest winners will receive $50 gift cards to local businesses, including popular ice cream shops, candy stores, pizza parlors, book stores and more.

Submissions will fall into one of three categories: selfies, group family photos and public service announcement videos.

In category one, judges will score submissions for overall creativity, best home-made mask, the total look, masks with matching outfits, masks supporting team spirit or sports and all-around best photo or selfie.

In the second category, families are encouraged to stage a photo showing off their mask skills. Photos of the first 10 families to enter are to be taken by a local photographer from a distance with a zoom lens. Those interested can email sharemaskcontest@gmail.com to schedule a session.

In category three, kids are encouraged to create a video of no more than 30 seconds explaining the importance of social distancing and wearing face masks.

The contest is open to children between ages 5 and 18 who live or attend school in Stonington, N. Stonington, or Groton. Those under 18 must submit a permission slip from their parent or guardian.

The last day to submit a photo or video is June 25. Click here to read the contest rules and enter the contest.