Their plan is to “Give a Childhood to a Child” in Honduras by collecting donations from our community. The goal of this project is to share the childhood American children have with the children of Honduras.
“We feel that it shapes a child’s character and personality for the better,” says Reaves. “We would also like for the children to have more fun and enjoy their time with each other, which can be encouraged by your donation.”
Items needed (new or used) include: children’s toys, children’s books, stuffed animals, art supplies, dolls, games, balls and puzzles.
According to statistics there are 6.7 million people in Honduras, most of whom are very poor. The average monthly income of a Honduran family is $100. Libraries have begun to be established in many communities of Honduras with the hope to increase the literacy rate amongst the people.
A USA Today article says that most of the country is still recuperating from Hurricane Mitch, which hit there in 1998, remaining over Honduras for two days. This natural disaster set the country back about 20 years in its growth and development. After the hurricane, many of the children were sent into the streets to fend for themselves. They are either homeless orphans or are sent there by desperate parents living in poverty. They live in overcrowded shelters where there are not enough beds and there is a shortage of facilities.
“Because there is such a big need for enjoyment in the Honduran community amongst the hard work and poverty, we are asking all residents of the Sandhills if they would like to help in our drive to help these children,” says Rose. “Now is the time to clean out your closets, no donation is too small.”
Those interested in helping with this project, may drop off donations to West End Presbyterian Church, Southern Pines United Methodist Church, Our Saviour Lutheran Church, and Brownson Memorial Presbyterian Church.
“If you would like your donation to be picked up, we will be glad to do so,” says Reaves. “The drive will last until the end of October, and the Helping Hands Ministries will send the donations to Honduras in mid-November, just in time for Christmas. “
“A few people in the community knew about our drive before it was publicly announced, and donations have begun pouring in,” says Rose. “We are looking forward to a successful drive to help as many children as possible. Any donation to enrich a child’s life is much appreciated and will be put to good use.”
In addition to collecting items , the Scouts have written and illustrated a book for the children in both English and Spanish. Every stuffed animal that is sent will have one of the books attached to it. They will also be translating the instructions of the games and toys to Spanish so the children can learn to play the games.
If you have any questions about the project or would like to request a pick up, Heather Reaves may be contacted at 673-4000 and Kassi Rose at 673-8034.
