The generous students and staff at Our Lady of Peace Catholic School in Ottawa fundraised for the birthing house this year during Lent. The small school of 156 kids managed to raise $466.75 for the birthing house's sustainability fund! The kids may not have big wallets, but they certainly have big hearts, said their principal, Anne Marie Duncan, who organized the fundraiser.
The winning team won a pizza lunch for the their efforts, and the students all made cards for the women and children of Penyem. They are so sweet! My father and brother, Joe and Ryan, accepted the donation on behalf of the Penyem birthing house. Here is what the students' generous contribution will be spent on in Penyem:
- more clean delivery kits (which include sterile delivery supplies, sheets, etc.)
- an outdoor cage for the gas tank that heats the water
- a door to the garden entrance to dissuade animals from eating the garden produce!
- three new lamps for those that need replacement
- a stronger torch light for the traditional birth attendant for night time deliveries
The OLP family is already planning another fundraiser for next year! From Ebrima on behalf of the villagers: "Thanks so much Anne Marie and the children for their big hearts!!!" Your kindness and generosity will have a big impact on the people of Penyem, and some of your artwork will eventually make it into the house itself!
