Educational Supplies for Jamaica
As part of the mission experience, American Caribbean Experience (ACE) asks that all teams have a donation drive for the kinds of things the organization uses in its service to the people of Jamaica. Education is a very important part of every community and Jamaica is no different from anywhere else. If children cannot read or write, they become adults who cannot read or write. These educational deficiencies become hindrances to escaping the bonds of poverty and often make these people prey to those who would take advantage of their ignorance. ACE works through four main impact areas to help alleviate the poverty and suffering in the country of Jamaica: Education, Enterprise, Healthcare and Discipleship. As part of their education plan, ACE offers sponsorship, tutoring and after school programs for the children in the community of St. Mary, Jamaica. They provide, through donations from groups such as ours, the necessary school supplies for these children so they have access to the tools they need to succeed in life.
We have been asked to bring the following supplies with us on our trip:
- 7 LARGE backpacks
strong ones — not parachute type material. These are used by the children not only for books but oftentimes for nearly all their important belongings. Since they carry them everywhere, sturdy and good-sized would be awesome, large enough for 4th, 5th and 6th graders.
- 10 pencil sharpeners
- 30 #2 pencils
- 10 glue sticks
- 10 blue/black ink pens
- 5 rulers
- 20 multi-color pocket folders
- 10 boxes of crayons (24 pack)
- 30 composition notebooks (cannot be spiral)
- 5 student scissors (round edge)
- 15 large erasers
This list is specific, but if we are able to collect and bring more than what is asked for, so much the better. We will seek to pack strategically to minimize the need for shipping costs, but if necessary, we can mail our donations prior to departure.
Your contributions to our youth’s efforts to serve in mission beyond our borders is greatly appreciated. There is no doubt that lives will be transformed with this journey…the lives of our youth and adults and the lives of those we encounter in Jamaica.
Blessings,
Tracy