Rays Of Love - Arusha, Tanzania

Hey friends! I’m Jenna Monroe, I’m 19 and I’m currently on a 5 week volunteer trip in Arusha, Tanzania with International Volunteer HQ and TVE. I’m teaching at Rays of Love, a school for children aged 3-6 whose families are unable to afford regular public school. The school has 2 classrooms, each with upwards of 30 kids, and another class is held outside. This school does absolutely amazing things for these kids, however, they’re in need of many things both in and out of the classroom. They were sharing about 5 pencils per classroom, and often due to lack of supplies students aren’t able to practice writing/reading etc. Each day, students are given a small cup of porridge for lunch and are without clean drinking water. They do not have any games or toys.

Although I’ve been here less than a week, I can honestly say this has already been some of the best time of my life. The children explode with love and happiness each day regardless of the circumstances and that’s something I think we can all learn from. Given the bare minimum, they never ask for anything and appreciate everything they’re given.

I’ve set up a GoFundMe in hopes that I can help as much as possible in my time here and it would mean SO much to me if I could have some help along the way. I will be here for the next month and my goal is to provide them with things they desperately need- school supplies, first aid kits, food, toys, art supplies, puzzles, sports equipment, etc. I would also like to raise some money to help provide money for the teachers who generously give their time Monday to Friday for these amazing kids.

The Canadian dollar is very valuable in comparison to the Tanzanian shilling and any donation, big or small, is greatly appreciated. Thanks a million xx Jen