One of the frustrating realities of building a school in a lagoon is that any and every building project first starts with finding dry land. In San Mateo, this requires hiring a crew to dig sand from other parts of the lagoon at the cost of $12.50 - $25 a boat load (approx 3.5 cu yards). Frustrating and expensive are just two of the words we would use to describe this activity. And with 8.5 acres of land that ranges from 3 inches to 2 feet under water, unending is another.
Although sand is always a desperate need, in the last months it has come to the fore as the School needs to build a fenced in playground to keep our requirements of having a preschool. And just this last month, the PTA, at the request of the Principal, have stepped up to meet this challenge. Every Friday for the last month, the PTA have done fundraisers - selling cheese dip (an absolute hit with the kids) as well as organising a BBQ where 300 parents, teachers and members of the public purchased their BBQ chicken, superbly cooked by the talented Mrs Rosalia, or chef.
The hard work paid off as the PTA were able to raise just over $500 US after expenses. What a superb effort! And they plan to continuue.
We are very excited to see the parents and community getting involved with the school.
Overall, we estimate we need US $2,500 to fill the playground and build it up to a level where it drains adequately after rain. Thanks to the PTA and individual donations and donations from churches we are getting close - just $1,000 to go!
If you can help by donating and amount, large or small, please contact the school on volunteerbelize@gmail.com. You can donate online at the Holy Cross Foundation or send a check to the Foundation at 7550 Coorporate Way, Eden Prairie, MN 55344, attn Brian Ostenso, Chairman.
Every little really helps!
Labels: Fundraiser, PTA