In Panama, public school is free for
students to attend. However, all students are supposed to have uniforms before
they are allowed to attend. The uniform requirement coupled with the cost of
books and supplies makes it difficult or not possible for some to go to
school. Some families simply do not have
the money available. In 2006, Mayra
Davidson and I (Sharon Rennie) decided to start a project to provide uniforms
to students whose families can not afford to buy them. We fully realized that we could not provide
uniforms to all needy kids, but that we could and would try to help as many as
the resources would allow. The target
area is in reasonable proximity to Coronado
and target schools are where the majority to the kids come from poorer
families. A basic uniform consists of a white shirt and pants or a skirt and
black shoes of a couple of standard types.
We visited three schools for the
year 2007 schools year and, with donations from friends and CSA events (Games
Night, mainly poker donors), were able to help 18 children. The numbers have increased in 2009 to 6
schools and 180 students with expenditures of around $1100. The 2008 and 2009 final reports are available
on www.playacommunity.com . The UFS project has been fortunate to have
good and loyal sponsors, of which the Mah Jong group continues to be the largest
group sponsor. Several individuals also
contribute significant amounts to keep the project viable. The project is strictly volunteer run; no
person is paid or compensated for expenses.
Additional people have joined in coordination
and the uniform purchasing and distribution since the project began. Extra hands, minds, and enthusiasm are always
welcome. The kids are wonderful to work
and their expressions of appreciation are a precious reward.
History and
Overview