CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS Mackenzy Scales in Marshalltown created interactive sidewalk art in her neighborhood to help bring hope and joy to the community. The brightly colored piece was washed away by the Wednesday rain but it included instructions such as “Hop like a bunny” and “Roar and stomp like a dino.”

The Marshalltown community has proven its creativity in response to COVID-19. Residents are continuing to connect and help out others despite the added challenge of social distancing. MHS senior Mackenzy Scales decided to reach out to children during this difficult time with a little bit of chalk and a lot creativity.

Mackenzy created interactive sidewalk chalk art, with instructions such as “hop like a bunny” with drawn carrots to jump on or “roar and stomp like a dino.”

The idea is to follow it like hopscotch. The art starts across the street from 1605 S. Fourth St.

Mackenzy saw a similar idea on social media and decided to bring it to Marshalltown. As an employee at Bobcat Academy, she has a passion for children.

“I really wanted to do something for the kids during this time,” Mackenzy said.

She said they have seen a few other families get involved.

“We had one family add on to it and a few people use it,” Mackenzy said.

Even those who have not seen it in person have enjoyed pictures of the art on social media.

Mackenzy said she and her siblings spent around three hours drawing the art.

Her mother, Jennifer Scales, is proud of her for taking the initiative to show love to the community.

“She came with the idea to my husband and I,” Jennifer said.

Jennifer said her daughter had great ideas for the artwork and it has been a positive experience for the family.

“It was good to get the whole family involved,” she said.

Unfortunately much of it was washed away following Wednesday’s rain.

While no one knows how long the pandemic will last, Marshalltown residents can count on the caring of their neighbors throughout this time.

Contact Anna Shearer at 641-753-6611 or ashearer@timesrepublican.com.