My wife and I decided our dream would be to help children in Jamaica to thrive in school by supplying them with all the things they need – clothing, shoes, back packs, pencils, paper, etc. Most importantly, however, is better nutrition! With a little help from a local home owner, we were introduced to our first school in a village called Duncans.
We arrived the morning of November 9th. As soon had we got out of the car we were greeted by a very young boy who took us both by the hands and lead us to where the rest of the students were gathered for their morning devotional. They were divided up by boys and girls and lined up by classrooms. When it was time, they went to their classes, one row at a time. You could feel the excitement in the air as they watched the two strange visitors that had come to see them.
We were introduced to the principal, Joyce Brown, who introduced us to the rest of the the teachers. Mrs. Brown had emailed me asking me to purchase an inexpensive media projector online and the school would reimburse me. We did the next best thing. We presented her with a top of the line HP projector that I already had from my office. You can see the excitement in her face when I handed it to her!
We didn’t come empty handed either. We brought a large duffel bag full of school supplies and sporting equipment for the playground. We also convinced the Hyatt food and beverage director to donate 100lbs. of rice and 4 gallons of beans! (the staple of their diet)
We were given a tour of the school and introduced to each and every classroom. The vice principal introduced us and gave me an opportunity to speak to the kids. He suggested I carry along the whiffle ball and bat to show them. I told them why we were there and that we were starting a foundation to supply them with the things they need. I don’t think I have ever seen so much excitement in my life. When we left for the day I turned to my wife and told her I felt like the Grinch when he returned Christmas to Whoville!
We learned so much from this trip that will allow us to move forward with a clear vision and a specific set of tasks. There are so many things that are needed that we must stay focused to be succesful. Your support is greatly appreciated and the results will always be reflected on our website.
God Bless,
Chris