Ten years ago, Grace visited Nicolas Segovia Elementary a rural school in Santa Lucia, Ecuador that’s home to 215 eager young learners from kindergarten to 7th grade. Despite the dedication of the 8 wonderful teachers there, Grace saw that the kids were missing out on basic school supplies. Many didn’t have backpacks, notebooks, or coloring pencils, and instead carried their things in plastic bags or in their hands. Teachers are doing what they can, often buying supplies out of their own pockets, but the need has continued to grow. Beyond the classroom, students struggle to complete homework due to the lack of basic supplies. Some even arrive at school hungry, relying on their teachers to share their lunches.

In 2016, Grace and her family managed to donate 30 backpacks filled with supplies to a first grade class. The joy on the children’s faces was unforgettable, and they celebrated with ice cream for the whole school. It was a small start, but now Grace wants to spread that joy to all 215 students.

We’ve already gathered 165 backpacks with some supplies, but we need your help to reach our goal. We’re looking for 50 more backpacks—25 for 11-year-old boys and 25 for girls—along with essential school supplies like notebooks, pencils, rulers, pencil cases, and coloring pencils for everyone.

Your monetary donation can make a huge difference in gathering the supplies and transportation costs to the school in Ecuador. Let’s work together to give these kids the tools they need to succeed and brighten their futures. Your kindness can truly change lives.