Children supporting children

Books are a cherished possession to children and adults alike in developing countries. This photo was taken along the streets of Port-au-Prince during one of our trips in 2011. This dedicated student continued his studies in the pathways snaking through a tent city, making the best of his personal circumstances. His determination to learn and become the best he can be is truly an inspiration to us all.

Kids in the US also inspire us with their kind hearts as they work together for the good of others. And in central Ohio, this is certainly the case.

For the second year in a row, children at Columbus Montessori Education Center raised money to provide for their peers in Haiti. A group of sixteen 4th, 5th and 6th graders sold pizza, held bake sales and embarked on their annual read-a-thon to fund their end-of-the-year class trip. The group far exceeded their goal and the students decided to donate a portion of the proceeds back to their alma mater as well as to a charity that the class selected.

We are honored to be the recipients of their generous spirits again in 2012. TRTP Vice President, Sonya, was on hand to receive a check from Diane, the class room parent, on the last day of school.

Sonya and Diane

And what better way to use school funds than to buy books for another school?

St. Vincent's Center for Handicapped Children's library was a complete loss after the earthquake of 2010. Thankfully, new shelves have been built in the current location and donations are coming in to purchase books in Kreyol, French and Braille to fill them.

With books ranging from $5 - $10 each, Columbus Montessori's donation of $250, matched by The Red Thread's donation of $250, will be able to fill a few of those empty shelves!

If you, your child's school, your company or anyone you know might like to be involved in the education of physically challenged children in Haiti, we encourage you to help The Red Thread purchase additional books for the students of St. Vincent's.

Donations can be made via check or online. Please be sure to mark the memo line with "St. Vincent's books". For electronic donations, please use the PayPal button located on the right sidebar. If you prefer snail mail, our mailing address is at the top of the page on the right.

Help put smiles on the faces of St. Vincent's students who will benefit from your gifts.