VERMONT—USDA Forest Service employees from Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests and Urban Connections teamed up with Seacrest Studios at Boston Children’s Hospital to host a fun hour of “nature” bingo. It’s an annual event the team has looked forward to since the partnership began in 2019.

Initially, the hospital opened its doors to forest staff who held a skins and skulls educational program for visitors. In 2020, due to the pandemic, the hospital changed health and safety guidelines, making in-person visits from the Forest Service unattainable. However, that didn’t keep the forest out of the hospital; staff got creative, working with Seacrest Studios to visit virtually.

Seacrest Studios broadcasts a live bingo game to patients who play along right from their own rooms. Forest Service personnel host the hour of bingo right from their own homes.

“We look forward to every opportunity to connect with patients at Boston Children’s Hospital and appreciate that technology has allowed us one more avenue to do that,” said Holly Knox, recreation program manager. “Our bingo call cards feature nature-based photos, and we enjoy sharing fun facts when Smokey is not stealing the show.”

Players are given clues describing items you might find in the forest, and then mark the item on the bingo cards. Winners are treated to their choice of Smokey Bear items. Knox says what started as a temporary solution to pandemic restrictions may become part of the education program’s annual repertoire.

“I look forward to visiting in person, but the opportunity to connect with everyone in a one-hour session enables us to reach more children more frequently,” said Knox. “Smokey will be keeping the date open on his calendar!”