The difference that one pencil can make

It’s hard to believe, but in many places in the Philippines, there are children who don’t go to school just because they don’t have a pencil. Or paper to write on. But sometimes, they go ahead and go to class without these, and they end up not learning anything.

There is a small primary school in Kolambugan, Lanao del Norte called San Roque Primary School. Last year, the school served around 80 students in four grade levels. It only had two teachers. This year, the school expects enrollment to swell to more than a hundred, however, the administrators are apprehensive due to limited school resources and the students’ inability to secure basic school supplies.

This school year, Isang Bata would like to reach out to the primary school children of the remote barangay of San Roque. They have literally been forgotten by many aid workers, the Department of Education (last year text books were given ONLY to teachers), and other aid agencies probably due to distance, difficulty of travel and security concerns because of conflict in the area.

Isang Bata’s appeal. It is a rare opportunity for us Manila residents to be able to send help to our children in the remote areas of Mindanao. Through this small project, we at Isang Bata are really hoping that many will take this chance to send some assistance over to Kolambugan. Please send me, Ime, a message through 09179378617, 09202770315 or blubitel@yahoo.com. School supplies, books in good condition, toiletries and snacks for the children, and cash (for shipping expenses) are welcome. We hope to be able to help at least 100 students this year, and we want to get these donations to them by June 19 at the latest. So if you intend to share something, please send it over by June 15. And please help us spread the word through your blog, social networks, email groups, etc. Just cut and paste this announcement. Thank you very much.

.