We would like to thank our gracious donors who equipped us with laptops, iPads, iPhones, books and clothes. Because of your generosity, we left Los Angeles with 6 big suitcases filled with computers, shirts, hats, school supplies and yes, some sweets.
A full day of driving in a hired jeep from Kathmandu to the Dhading district was an adventure on its own as we traveled on a dusty, steep and narrow road, rocking and rolling inside the car. The next morning after an additional 2 hours of driving in plumes of dust we reached our first school. We felt very special as we were greeted by hundreds of children who welcomed us with flower garlands as well as singing and dancing performances. During this trip we visited all 6 schools that SYMF supports and met the children, faculty and parents. It wasn’t an easy task because at times the one road leading to the different schools was either blocked due to repair efforts or not accessible at all. To reach our last three schools we had to get out of the car, suitcases in hand, and walk the rest of the way. Unfortunately 4 out of these 6 schools have not yet been rebuilt after they were destroyed by the 2015 earthquake. The children have to study in small, dark, temporary shelters. On a sunny day it is a cheerful scene, but on a rainy day when water comes inside and chilling cold blasts the room, the kids have nowhere to hide. We realize there is much more help needed for these children. The Nepali school year starts at the end of April and SYMF is committed to continue and expand our support.
To see the smiling children, curiously peeking inside the bags of gifts they received, was well worth the effort.
Again thank you for your support.
