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for Caribbean Literacy and School Support (CLASS)...
  Can you help Caribbean children by adopting a Wish List project?
With donated books and cash from Hands Across the Sea, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Alyssa Galeema transformed a storage room into a library at St. Dominic RC Primary School on the island of Grenada.

Hands Across the Sea's Caribbean Literacy and School Support (CLASS) program seeks out the "Wish Lists" of school principals, literacy coordinators, community leaders, local NGOs, and Peace Corps Volunteers who are upgrading their school libraries, making reading corners, running reading groups, and setting up literacy centers where children can pick up a good book, take it home to read, share it with their siblings and parents, and then return it. We are promoting a love of reading by making great books available to enthusiastic children.

Will you help Caribbean kids by adopting all or part of a 2011 Wish List project below? In 2011 our fundraising goal is $100,000 and since our organizational expenses are so low, we use 94% of all donations to purchase books, school and art supplies and teaching resources. To make a donation to help a specific school, please send us check and write the name of the school or the Peace Corps Volunteer's name in the memo line or make a donation via PayPal and write a note in the comments field about your preferences.

If you have children's books in near-new condition that you'd like to donate, or would like to run a book drive to collect books in near-new condition, or want to buy near-new books for Hands at your local Friends of the Library sale, please contact us. Hands Across the Sea's mission is to "get great books to Caribbean kids" — never, never, never do we accept or send library discards or other old, moldy, inappropriate-for-children books. We send only new or near-new books that engage, encourage, and educate Caribbean children.

Scroll down to see all the Wish Lists, or click to go to the Wish Lists of a specific island:
Anguilla • Antigua • Dominica • Grenada • St. Kitts & Nevis • St. Lucia • St. Vincent & Grenadines


Anguilla • Leeward Islands • Eastern Caribbean

 Jeff & Diane have adopted this $200 project 
FROM TOP: A big Thank You from Grade 5 at Orealia Kelly Primary School; a big cheer from Grade 6 at The Valley Primary School; teacher Marsha Harrigan and her fabulous "reading corner" at The Valley Primary School.

Blowing Point Youth Centre; ANGUILLA
Jemima Francis, Director; serves 100 children
Background from Hands: We visited this youth centre, founded by the Chief Education Officer of the Ministry of Education and the local community, and saw a vibrant, busy place that kids are drawn to after school.
Hands will buy high interest-low reading level "books for boys."

 Jeff & Diane have adopted this $200 project 
Little Dix/Stony Ground Youth Centre; ANGUILLA
Karen Richardson, local parent
Background from Hands: This is a brand-new youth centre, modeled on the Blowing Point Youth Centre, that will serve as an educational "magnet" to draw primary school and high school students after school.
Hands will buy reading books.

 Jeff & Diane have adopted this $300 project 
Orealia Kelly Primary School; ANGUILLA
Jasmine Hodge-Thomas, Principal; 336 students
Background from Hands: We visited this school in 2010 and donated 300 books to their growing school library.
Hands will buy Caribbean-themed readers and lamination film.

 Jeff & Diane have adopted this $600 project 
The Valley Primary School; ANGUILLA
Paula Edwards, Principal; 433 students
Background from Hands: We visited the school and donated 300 books in 2010. The school has a great, dedicated Grade 2 teacher, Marsha Harrigan, with an active "reading corner" that is making a real difference in students' reading skills.
Hands will buy Grade 2 reading books and a digital projector.


Antigua • Leeward Islands • Eastern Caribbean

 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Ryan 
 Jones have donated $250 toward this goal 
Bolans Primary School; ANTIGUA
FROM TOP: Students from Liberta Primary School with their 2010 donation; Environmental Awareness Group's Jen Davis and Natalya Lawrence with donated children's books for their library; Norma-Jean Arey and students from St. Mary's Secondary School standing in the refurbished library with new Scholastic books bought with donated funds.

Click to support this project: $500 goal
Mrs. Denise Tong, Remedial Reading Teacher; 170 students
Ryan Jones, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: Ryan Jones is refurbishing a library that was started by a previous U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer, and is dedicating his two-year service on Antigua to improving literacy with the launch of a bookmobile.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy books for the Bolans Primary School library.

Cedar Grove Primary School; ANTIGUA
Click to support this project: $500 goal
Mrs. Bernadette Jarvis, Principal; 120 students
Background from Hands: Employees of Grand Pineapple, a Sandals resort, will refurbish the school library.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books to get Cedar Grove's school library up and running.

 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Jen 
 Davis have donated $225 toward this goal 
Environmental Awareness Group; ANTIGUA
Click to support this project: $550 goal
Dr. Karron James, President; serves 60 children
Jen Davis, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: This local non-governmental organization is dedicated to educating children about the importance of their island environment. The Environmental Awareness Group partners with local teachers to develop curriculum about the environment.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy specific science and natural history texts for the library.

 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Norma- 
 Jean Arey have donated $1,615 toward this goal 
St. Mary's Secondary School; ANTIGUA
Click to support this project: $1,500 goal
Myrna Isaac, Principal; 120 students
Norma-Jean Arey, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: Norma-Jean is creating a beautiful library for this new secondary school.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy books as requested by Norma-Jean.

The Student Support Centre (SSC); ANTIGUA
Click to support this project: $300 goal
Billie Sterling, Programme Coordinator/Counselor; 6-15 students at a time, ages 12-18
Jennifer Davis, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: The Student Support Centre was launched by Antigua's Ministry of Education out of a need for greater intervention programs for at-risk youth within the school system.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy teaching materials for teenagers as requested by Jennifer Davis.

 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Ina 
 Howe have donated $558 toward this goal 
Villa Primary School; ANTIGUA
Click to support this project: $1,000 goal
Angela James, Principal; 386 students
Ina Howe, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: This school is refurbishing their library and getting rid of outdated books to make room for new, exciting books to get students interested in reading.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new good books for the library.

Willikies Primary School; ANTIGUA
Click to support this project: $500 goal
Joycelyn Henry-Hampson, Principal; 92 students
Background from Hands: Employees of Grand Pineapple, a Sandals resort, will refurbish the school library.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books to get the Willikies Primary School library up and running.


Dominica • Windward Islands • Eastern Caribbean

 The Bevery Foundation & Rosalie Resort have adopted this project 
Bagatelle Primary School; DOMINICA
FROM TOP: U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Allegra Asplundh-Smith receives her Hands' donation from the Dominica Lions Club in November 2010; Principal Doreen Watts and Peace Corps Volunteer Alicia Dodds with books and resources for Trafalgar Primary School; happy students at Petite Savanne Primary celebrate the new books in their new library.
Mr. Guiste, Principal; 55 students
Background from Hands: This rural school, located on Dominica's remote southeast coast, is creating a borrowing library with the help of nearby Rosalie Resort.

Beau Bois Pre-School; DOMINICA
Click to support this project: $350 goal
Doreen John, Principal; 42 students
Background from Hands: We are partnering with the Dominica Lions Club to supply resources to this wonderful pre-school in Castle Comfort.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy swing seats, CD player, books, and art supplies.

 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Jeff 
 Taylor have donated $115 toward this goal 
 A $250 matching grant donated by Ruth & Dan! 
 A $250 match has been donated by Sandy & Polly! 
Calibishie Primary School; DOMINICA
Andrew Shaw, Principal; 110 students
Jeff Taylor, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: The school has a library donated by Anna Cohen, an American girl, and needs a fresh supply of books.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy books and art supplies.

 David has donated $200 toward this goal 
CALLS (Center where Adolescents Learn
to Love and Serve); DOMINICA
Click to support this project
Ms. Douglas, Director; serves 30 young people
Menke Allen Gray, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: Located in Portsmouth, this center helps high-school dropouts develop vocational skills and become good citizens.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy paperback dictionaries.

Castle Bruce Primary School; DOMINICA
Olivia Alfred, Principal; 150 students
Click to support this project: $500 goal
Background from Hands: This school library was renovated with the help of an American retiree, Patti McInerney, and Good News International, and needs new books to replenish the shelves.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books for the library.

 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Judy 
 Joyce have donated $200 toward this goal 
 Tony has donated $200 toward this goal 
Castle Bruce Secondary School; DOMINICA
Click to support this project: $1,000 goal
Vernillia Nation, English Department; 450 students
FROM TOP: Cataloguing the 2010 Hands book donation at Isaiah Thomas Secondary School with student, teacher, and community volunteers; the Literacy Centre that Hands built in 2010 is a busy place; first formers (7th graders) at Isaiah Thomas Secondary School with books in their newly refurbished library.

Judy Joyce, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: Located on the rural, isolated eastern side of Dominica, this underserved high school needs assistance. Vernillia and Judy are refurbishing the school library by painting the floors and walls and constructing bookshelves.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books as requested by Vernillia and Judy.

 Tony has adopted this $300 project 
Clifton Primary School; DOMINICA
Teddy Wallace, Principal; 56 students
Background from Hands: The principal, a finalist in the Principal of the Year awards, is very excited about getting new books for the school library.
Hands will buy new books for the library and toner for the printer.

Cottage Pre-School; DOMINICA
Click to support this project: $200 goal
Sylvestia Ettienne, Principal; 14 students
Background from Hands: Located in a small, isolated community on the northwest coast, the pre-school has been spruced up by former Peace Corps Volunteer Beth Hanson, and needs art supplies, books, and toner for the printer.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy art supplies, books, and toner.

 The Aspen Grove Foundation has 
 adopted this $600 project 
Delices Primary School; DOMINICA
Martha Stephenson, Principal; 65 students
Background from Hands: Located in a rural community on Dominica's east coast, Delices Primary has an active borrowing library that is serving the school and local community well.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books to replenish the library started by former U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Allegra Asplundh-Smith.

Dominica Community High School; DOMINICA
Click to support this project: $1,000 goal
Celia Nicholas, Principal; 111 students
Background from Hands: An alternative secondary school with a cooperative, encouraging environment where students learn the value of teamwork.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy a new photocopier and books for the library.

 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Dana 
 Underwood have donated $840 toward this goal 
Giruadel Primary School; DOMINICA
Click to support this project: $1,000 goal
Mrs. Marvelyn Jacob, Principal; 55 students
Dana Underwood, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: Giruadel Primary is located in a small community perched halfway up the mountains of the east coast. U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Dana Underwood is turning the school library into a dynamic place for young readers.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy great new books for the school library.

 The Aspen Grove Foundation has 
 adopted this $600 project 
Grand Fond Primary School; DOMINICA
Hattie Leslie, Principal; 80 students
FROM TOP: An eager young reader at Roseau Primary School; enthralled readers at Savanne Paille Primary with their 2010 donated books; students at Pennville Primary with books provided by Lakewood Yacht Club (TX) members who visited on a cruise ship.

Brian Longin, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: We are working with a Hands partner, Open Books, Open Minds (a Dominican non-governmental organization), to refurbish the library.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy high interest-low reading level "books for boys."

Isaiah Thomas Secondary School; DOMINICA
Click to support this project: $1,000 goal
Jerome Bardouille, Principal; 550 students
Background from Hands: A passionate principal and teaching staff are turning around this underserved high school. Many of the students come from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy non-fiction books for the library.

 The Aspen Grove Foundation has 
 adopted this $600 project 
Jones Beaupierre Primary School; DOMINICA
Verna Frederick, Principal; 120 students
Background from Hands: Located in the farming village of La Plaine on Dominica's east coast, the school has an active borrowing library that is serving the school and local community well.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books to replenish the library started by former U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Allegra Asplundh-Smith.

 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Arianne 
 Smith have donated $485 toward this goal 
Mahaut Primary School; DOMINICA
Click to support this project: $400 goal
Victoria Roberts, Principal; 157 students
Arianne Smith, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: Mahaut Primary School has classroom libraries and "reading corners" as well as a vibrant music program — including a steel pan band!
Cash donations so that Hands can buy music program supplies and school supplies.

 The Bevery Foundation & Rosalie Resort have adopted this project 
Morne Jaune Primary School; DOMINICA
Vanya Eloi, Principal; 60 students
Background from Hands: Morne Jaune has a lovely library, a rarity in primary schools, and the Principal, Vanya Eloi, is fostering a professional environment among her staff to promote and improve reading in this quiet, east coast village. Judy Joyce is a dynamic influence who has injected a lot of positive energy into the community in the areas of literacy and eco-tourism. skills.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books for the school library.

Pennville Primary School; DOMINICA
Click to support this project: $500 goal
Euella Joseph, Principal; 108 students
Background from Hands: Former Peace Corps Volunteer Austin Land introduced us to this school, located in the remote northeast corner of Dominica. Most of the local population is illiterate, but the school is making great progress in improving students' reading skills.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books for the school library.

 The Aspen Grove Foundation has 
 adopted this $600 project 
Petit Savanne Primary School; DOMINICA
Oliver Samuels, Principal; 87 students
Background from Hands: Located in a rural area on Dominica's east coast, Petit Savanne has an active borrowing library that is serving the school and local community well.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books to replenish the library started by former U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Allegra Asplundh-Smith.

 The Aspen Grove Foundation has 
 adopted this $600 project 
FROM TOP: Inside U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Beth Hanson's coral pink library at Savanne Paille; donated swing seats at Goodwill Primary School's playground; Jinja Pre-school students with toys; a busy, happy reading corner at Roseau Primary School.

Pichelin Primary School; DOMINICA
Ericson DeGallerie, Principal; 40 students
Alex Sheldon, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: We are working with a Hands partner, Open Books, Open Minds (a Dominican non- governmental organization), to refurbish the library.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy high interest-low reading level "books for boys."

 Sandy & Polly have donated 
 $250 toward this goal 
Portsmouth Secondary School; DOMINICA
Click to support this project: $500 goal
Lois Bristol, Principal; 700 students
Background from Hands: Educational consultant Dr. Jill Hearne introduced us to this school; the principal is very excited about the prospect of getting new library books.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books for high-school students.

 Allegra & Austin have donated 
 $235 to the Roving Caregivers 
Roving Caregivers Programme; DOMINICA
Nisbertha Buffong, Director
Background from Hands: Roving Caregivers is a non-governmental organization that supports the stimulation of young children in the home and teaches parenting skills.

 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Erin 
 Sozanski have donated $260 toward this goal 
 Employees of CAC/WMI have donated 
 $500 toward this goal 
Salisbury Primary School; DOMINICA
Click to support this project: $1,000 goal
Burton Vidal, Principal; 127 students
Erin Sozanski, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: The school, located in an isolated community on a hill overlooking the ocean, has a library that is used by students as well as the village community.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy non-fiction books and art supplies.

Sheba Pre-School; DOMINICA
Click to support this project: $350 goal
Gloria Baptiste, Principal; 30 students
Background from Hands: The Dominica Lions Club introduced us to this pre-school, which is doing a good job for the local community.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy books and art supplies.

 Gloria & Richard have adopted this $100 project 
St. Luke's Primary School; DOMINICA
Sister Annita Peter, Principal; 200 students
Background from Hands: The District Education Officer, Ferne Brumant, is piloting a guided reading program at the school and has requested specific texts from Scholastic.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy requested Scholastic books for the pilot program.

 Employees of CAC/WMI havev donated $500 toward this goal 
Wills Strathmore Stevens Primary School; DOMINICA
Alven Abraham, Principal; 220 students
Rashawna Chapman, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: Rashawna has been working on a new library and needs new books to replace the old, torn and outdated books that are filling the shelves.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books for the library.


Grenada • Windward Islands • Eastern Caribbean

Bonaire Government School; GRENADA
Click to support this project: $1,000 goal
Mrs. Louise George; 750 students
Background from Hands: This large, underserved high school on Grenada's east coast has an enthusiastic and dedicated English department. The school librarian and the literacy specialist are sprucing up the library with fresh paint and they need new, age-appropriate books.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books for the library.

 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Amanda 
FROM TOP: A Peace Corps Volunteer reads aloud at the Saturday Spice Isle Young Readers program in Corinth, Grenada; students pitch in to help create a library at St. Dominic's RC Primary; the new library is opened, and students are thrilled with their new selection of books.
 Dombach have donated $100 toward this goal 
 Bruce & Gretchen have donated 
 $500 toward this goal 
Corinth Government School; GRENADA
Click to support this project: $750 goal
Kathleen Victor, Acting Principal; 200 students
Amanda Dombach, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: Amanda has created a beautiful library that is loved by students and teachers. We supported the library last year; Amanda is requesting additional books, educational games, and art supplies.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books, educational games, and art supplies for the school library.

Grenville Secondary School; GRENADA
Click to support this project: $1,000 goal
Olivia Philip, Librarian; 750 students
Background from Hands: This large, underserved high school on Grenada's east coast has an enthusiastic and dedicated English department. The school librarian and the literacy specialist are sprucing up the library with fresh paint and they need new, age-appropriate books.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books for the library.

 Dan & Carrie have donated $45 toward this goal 
MacDonald College; GRENADA
Click to support this project: $1,000 goal
Lorraine DeAllie, Principal; 557 students
Jacqueleen Zamora, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Jacqueleen: Our goal is to create a school library full of age-, level-, and culture-relevant independent reading books for our secondary school students. The larger community, located in the poorest parish of Grenada, has not had a functional library in many years and the lack of books, especially at affordable prices, present huge barriers to improving literacy. While teachers, principals, and ministry officials have declared literacy as the educational priority, the lack of high-interest independent reading books at the secondary level has undermined much of the effort from teachers and the Ministry of Education to increase literacy rates. A teacher at MacDonald College Secondary School, Ms. Donnette Narine, has secured a volunteer librarian and a space to start a small library in the school. What we need now are high-interest chapter books for pre-teens and teens, ages 11-17, Grades 5-11. The topics the students would be most interested in are sports (specifically soccer, cricket, track and field, basketball, volleyball), popular TV shows (Hannah Montana, I-Carly), coming-of-age stories, and teen romance. Any books with a Caribbean setting or with African-heritage characters will be most relevant to the students.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy books for this library that will serve 557 high school students.

Mt. Airy Young Readers Programme; GRENADA
Click to support this project: $460 goal
Jeanne and Everest Pascal; serves 60+ students
Background from Hands: This retired local couple, with the help of visiting sailors from nearby harbors, run a remedial reading program on Saturdays.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy sets of reading books.

Roving Caregivers Programme; GRENADA
Click to support this project: $200 goal
Dawne Cyrus, Director; serves 300 people
Amanda Dombach, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: Roving Caregivers is a non-governmental organization that supports the stimulation of young children in the home and teaches parenting skills.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy West Indian read-aloud books.

 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Stephanie 
 Morano have donated $370 toward this goal 
Special Education Teacher-Training Unit; GRENADA
Click to support this project: $850 goal
Jennelyn St. John-John, Special Education Officer, Ministry of Education; trains 30 teachers
Stephanie Morano, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: The Special Education Teacher-Training Unit at Grenada's Ministry of Education is training secondary-school teachers in special education strategies and methods.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy resource materials that teachers will use to create teaching aids and manipulatives such as games, flash cards, and charts to incorporate into their lessons.

St. Joseph's RC Morne Jaloux School; GRENADA
Click to support this project: $1,000 goal
Ms. Jacqueline Phillip, Principal; 170 students
Brice Taylor, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: Illiteracy is a constant battle in Grenada. The principal and teachers at this school want to break this mold, and create an atmosphere that actively engages students to read. They are requesting reading books for all primary levels.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books for the passionate and committed principal and teachers of St. Jopseph's RC Morne Jaloux School.

Sunnyside School; GRENADA
Click to support this project: $500 goal
Annette Roberts, Principal; 100 students
Background from Hands: This school, a one-room building with chalkboards dividing the classrooms, needs teaching resources and reading books.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy teaching resources and reading books.


St. Kitts and Nevis • Leeward Islands • Eastern Caribbean

 Dilys has donated $100 toward this goal 
Bellevue Primary School; NEVIS
FROM TOP: The vibrant library at Tyrell Williams Primary School, St. Kitts; primary school students, Nevis; Mrs. Sonita Daniel, Director of Nevis' library Service with eager readers at Elizabeth Pemberton Primary School, Nevis.

Lucia Wilkinson, Principal; 46 students
Click to support this project: $200 goal
Background from Hands: This school has an unused classroom ready to become a library in September, but the school has very few books.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books for these primary school readers.

 Employees of CAC/WMI have 
 adopted this $500 project 
Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College
(teacher-training college); ST. KITTS
Ionie Liburd, Head of Teacher Education; 50 students
Background from Hands: Ms. Liburd is frustrated because her teacher-trainees are not able to afford children's books to complete their assignments. She'd like to start a library for the teacher-trainees so they can immerse themselves in the world of children's literature as part of their teacher preparation.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy books for the teacher's college library.


 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer 
 Christopher Nelson have donated 
 $300 toward this goal 
Dr. William Connor Primary School; ST. KITTS
Click to support this project: $600 goal
Valencia Syder, Principal; 308 students
Christopher Nelson, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Christopher: One of my projects as a Peace Corps Volunteer is to revitalize the school's library, which had fallen into a state of disuse. Over a couple of months, and starting with an all-day event that incorporated a dozen students into the project, the library books and shelves were reorganized into sections of First Readers, Early Readers, Experienced Readers, Adult Novels, Teacher Reference, Student Reference, and Local Interest. I made an agreement with the school that once these initial stages of the project were completed, only then would an effort to expand the library be undertaken. And since the agreement has been fulfilled and the principal has expressed her interest in further encouraging the use of the reorganized library, I am writing to Hands to request books.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books for the revitalized library at DWC Primary School.

 Indra has donated $100 toward this goal 
Elizabeth Pemberton Primary School; NEVIS
Click to support this project: $500 goal
Adina Taylor, Principal; 250 students
Background from Hands: This is a brand-new school whose library Hands has supported in the past; the new librarian is requesting some specific texts.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books.

Gingerland Secondary School; NEVIS
Click to support this project: $500 goal
Dawn Jeffers, Principal; 400 students
Background from Hands: We visited this school in December, 2010, and saw a vibrant and well-utilized school library in need of new books.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books for Gingerland Secondary.

 The Rotary Club has donated $300 toward this goal 
Irish Town Primary School; ST. KITTS
Click to support this project: $600 goal
Mrs. Jean Nisbett Bodie, Principal; 150 students
Tom Wieland, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: Mrs. Boddie is a new principal who is passionate about improving reading scores at Irish Town Primary. She has partnered with U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Tom Wieland and the local business community to refurbish the school library, and they are making great progress.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books to revitalize he school library.



St. Lucia • Windward Islands • Eastern Caribbean

 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Sara 
 Faison have donated $540 toward this goal 
 Employees of CAC/WMI have donated $500 toward this goal 
Anse-La-Ray Primary School; ST. LUCIA
FROM TOP: Fond Assau Primary School, St. Lucia; Fond Assau sixth graders welcome Hands to their refurbished library; U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Aria Grabowski with Richfond Combined School students and donated books.

Click to support this project
Reeves Lawrence, Principal; 190 students
Sara Faison, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: At present there is no school library; Sara is putting one together. "Books for boys" and for 3rd and 4th graders are especially needed.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books as requested by Sara.

 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Steven 
 Kim have donated $825 toward this goal 
Babboneau Primary School; ST. LUCIA
Click to support this project: $1,000 goal
Mrs. Theophilus, Principal; 317 students
Steven Kim, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Steven Kim: "Our goal is to increase interest in reading and improve literacy rates by providing children at Babonneau Primary with books to read that will allow the development and implementation of in-school and after-school reading programs. Currently the damaged and battered shelves are almost empty, and the books that we do have are in bad condition. The library lacks novels and storybooks for all reading levels (K-6); most of the books in the library are old, outdated textbooks."
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books for this underserved school.

 Bruce & Susan have adopted this $1,000 project 
Bonne Terre Preparatory School; ST. LUCIA
Jennifer Alexander, Principal; 175 students
Background from Hands: An American parent, Staci Landwehr, is refurbishing the library, which badly needs new books.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books for the library.

Canaries Public Library; ST. LUCIA
Click to support this project: $500 goal
Mary Edith St. Ange, Librarian
Background from Hands: The Soufriere Public Library librarian introduced us to Mary Edith. The isolated coastal community library needs an all-in-one printer/fax/copier.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy a printer/fax/copier for the library.

 Employees of CAC/WMI have donated $500 toward this goal 
 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Heather 
 Courson have donated $400 toward this goal 
Cannon Laurie Anglican Primary School; ST. LUCIA
Click to support this project: $1,000 goal
Principal Alexander, Principal; 323 students
FROM TOP: Piaye Combined School's library after Hurricane Tomas damage; Principal Sharon McDonald and one of the teachers lay down a new floor with donated funds; Sharon applies a fresh coat of paint on the walls over Easter break 2011.

Heather Courson, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: The new Principal has decided to clean out a storage room and dedicate the space to a library and resource center. Heather is starting from the ground up with books.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy reading books (ages 8-12) for this new school library.

 The Wohlfeld Family Foundation 
 has adopted this $500 project 
Children's Literacy Action Programme; ST. LUCIA
Virgil Leonty, Director; 45 children
Background from Hands: This after-school program serves underprivileged children in the Marchand Blvd. section of Castries (the capital city of St. Lucia). Currently the program is held in a private home, but the Sandals Foundation is building a structure that will open around Christmas 2011. CLAP requests reading books for grades K-6, reference books to help with homework assignments and school supplies.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy reading and reference books and school supplies.

 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Sarah 
 Templeton have donated $345 to this project 
Court Diversion Programme; ST. LUCIA
Sarah Templeton, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer; 40 children
Background from Sarah Templeton: "This is a new program to work with some of the most challenged youth on St. Lucia. The children have asked for reading books to start a library as well as art supplies."
Cash donations so that Hands can buy reading books.

 Melanie and Leslie have adopted this $100 project 
Fond Assau Primary School; ST. LUCIA
Click to support this project: $100 goal
Mary Gustave, Principal; 180 students
Background from Hands: We supplied library books for this school in 2010, and they are requesting teaching resources books on classroom management.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy teaching support materials.

 Ann, Brad, and Susan have donated 
 $400 toward this goal 
La Croix Maingot Combined School; ST. LUCIA
FROM TOP: A warm welcome for Hands from Piaye Combined Primary School students; U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Jill Watts with students and Hands-donated art materials; the Roblot Community library, reborn after Hurricane Tomas tore the roof off; volunteers at Soufriere Secondary School catalogue books bought and shipped by Hands Across the Sea.

Click to support this project: $500 goal
Martha Foster, Principal; 375 students
Background from Hands: Susan Walch, a Peace Corps Volunteer in St. Lucia introduced us to this school. There is a librarian and literacy committee dedicated to improving the library and they need suitable books, especially "books for boys."
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books for La Croix Maingot Primary school library.

 Katherine has donated $250 toward this goal 
La Guerre Primary School; ST. LUCIA
Click to support this project: $1,000 goal
Therese Johnny, Principal; 250 students
Chris Wagar, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: Chris has built an action plan for renovating the library and needs books, especially "books for boys."
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books for La Guerre Primary school library.

 Keegan has adopted this $500 project 
La Ressource Combined School; ST. LUCIA
Rita Henry, Principal; 160 students
Background from Hands: A former Peace Corps Volunteer, Aria Grabowski, introduced us to this school, which needs books for their classroom libraries.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books for the school.

 The Wohlfeld Family Foundation 
 has adopted this $500 project 
Piaye Combined School; ST. LUCIA
Sharon McDonald, Principal; 125 students
Jill Watts, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: We supported this school with their library and art supplies in 2010 (the school library lost its roof in Hurricane Tomas). The school needs toner (very expensive in the Caribbean) for their printer.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy toner for Piaye Combined School's printer.

Roblot Library; ST. LUCIA
Click to support this project: $350 goal
Trudy Henry, Librarian
Background from Hands: Peace Corps Volunteer Susan Walch introduced us to this beautiful local library, which lost its roof in Hurricane Tomas. The library needs a new encyclopedia set and new non-fiction books.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy a new encyclopedia set and new non-fiction books.

 The Wohlfeld Family Foundation 
 has adopted this $500 project 
Soufriere Infant School; ST. LUCIA
Sandra Prospere, Principal; 250 students
FROM TOP: Harriet & TL flank Principal Sandra Prospere at Soufriere Infant school — the school was badly damaged by Hurricane Tomas; fourth graders at St. Aloysius RC Boys Primary eagerly peruse new books; "I love tarantulas!" this boy exclaimed and then sat down to study them in full-color detail.

Background from Hands: Badly flood-damaged by Hurricane Tomas, the school's resources were wiped out including a new Scholastic reading program.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new reading books to re-stock the school library.

 The Wohlfeld Family Foundation 
 has adopted this $500 project 
Soufriere Primary School; ST. LUCIA
Mr. Gill, Principal; 250 students
Background from Hands: Lisa Kuk, a Peace Corps Volunteer, introduced us to this school, which desperately needs reading books.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new reading books.

 Jan and Michael have donated $500 to this project 
Vieux Fort Infant School; ST. LUCIA
Click to support this project: $500 goal
Olivia Mathurin, Principal; 200 students
Toni Urban, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: Toni's goal is to start an after school program for the two Vieux Fort schools to promote self-esteem and educational enrichment through literacy and the arts.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy age-appropriate books and art supplies.

 The Wohlfeld Family Foundation 
 has adopted this $500 project 
Vieux Fort Primary School; ST. LUCIA
Francis Moonie, Principal; 380 students
Toni Urban, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: Toni's goal is to start an after school program for the two Vieux Fort schools to promote self-esteem and educational enrichment through literacy and the arts.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy age-appropriate books and art supplies.

 Kathy has donated $100 to this project 
Vieux Fort Public Library; ST. LUCIA
Toni Urban, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: Toni is helping refurbish this small public library, which is badly in need of books.

 Keegan has adopted this $500 project 
Wilton's Yard Association After School Program;
ST. LUCIA
Peter Reynolds, Director; 40 students
Background from Hands: The Sandals Foundation introduced us to this program. Hands Across the Sea will provide reference books, reading books and school supplies to help disadvantaged youth stay on track with their studies in a rough part of Castries.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy books and school supplies.


St. Vincent and the Grenadines • Windward Islands • Eastern Caribbean

 Carol and Peter have adopted this $250 project  
Bequia Reading Group; ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
FROM TOP: Community Leader Cheryl Johnson with a huge thank you card from Bequia Reading Group participants; the Bequia Reading Group in action on a Saturday morning; U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Kelly Wagner and Principal Kay Martin-Jack with books in the freshly-painted, designated library space at Buccament Bay Secondary School.

Cheryl Johnson, Director; serves 60 children
Background from Hands: We visited this extremely enthusiastic group of readers, who meet to read on Saturday mornings at a local restaurant on the island of Bequia.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new Scholastic books.

 Mark and Barbara have adopted this $100 project  
Bethel Pre-School; ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Norma Marshall, Principal; 30 students
Background from Hands: Peace Corps Volunteer Ted Fischer introduced us to this pre-school in the remote village of Fitz-Hughes.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books.

 Mark and Barbara have adopted this $150 project 
Brighton Reading Group;
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Anella Roban, Director; serves 20 children
Ann Cryster, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: Anella and Ann run this reading group on Saturdays at a picnic table outside a local rum shop. They'd love a few new titles to help their young readers.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy 15 copies of 5 titles in grade 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 reading ages.

Buccament Bay Secondary School;
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Click to support this project: $1,000 goal
Kay Martin-Jack, Principal; 135 students
Kelly Wagner, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: Eighty percent of the student population is comprised of boys. A new library is underway, with the help of a local resort. We'd like to help the school again this year with books that appeal to teenage boys.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new "books for boys" for the new library.

Buccament Government School;
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Click to support this project: $300 goal
Artis Robinson, Principal; 183 students
Background from Hands: This school was introduced to Hands by U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Camille Aragon and Aiko Roudette, a St. Vincent native who is attending college in the U.S.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy near-new books for the school library.

 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Jessica 
 Greathouse have donated $510 toward this goal 
Cane End Government School;
FROM TOP: A "before" picture at Diamond Village library — with your cash donations, we can't wait to show you an "after" photo; U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Noah Halton's library at Greiggs Primary; two sixth graders at the Fitz-Hughes Primary School library.

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Click to support this project: $1,000 goal
Ave Stephen-Weeks, Principal; 175 students
Jessica Greathouse, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Jessica Greathouse: "This school, in the beautiful, agricultural Mesopotamia Valley, would like to enhance literacy among the students by exposing them to a variety of literature. A significant number of students are below grade level."
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books for the new Cane End library.

 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Liz 
 Deppe have donated $670 toward this goal 
Central Leeward Secondary School;
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Click to support this project: $1,000 goal
Dora James, Principal; 532 students
Liz Deppe, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: This is a newly-built-by-the-Taiwanese school, well-equipped with classrooms, desks, chalkboards and a library space but lacking in books. The school needs books for Liz's after school book club, for remedial reading lessons, for English classes and for the library as well as art supplies.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books and art supplies.

Chateaubelair Red Cross Pre-School;
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Click to support this project: $100 goal
Sharon Prince, Principal; 30 students
Background from Hands: This pre-school, located in the isolated Chateaubelair community, is in desperate need of books.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books for pre-school children.

 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Julie 
 Mills have donated $471 toward this goal 
Diamond Government School;
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Click to support this project: $1,000 goal
Elizabeth Johnson, Principal; 124 students
Julie Mills, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: The Diamond Primary school library's goal is to create a culture of reading in the community where all ages can take out books, and the space can be used for after-school programs, media and technology assistance, and read-aloud sessions.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books for the library.

 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Valerie 
 Pelletier have donated $280 toward this goal 
Emmanuel High School;
FROM TOP: A "before" photo of the library at Fitz-Hughes Primary launched by U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Molly Okenuff; books were catalogued and shelved by Peace Corps Volunteer Ted Fischer; Harriet with the youngest participants at the Bequia Reading Group.

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Click to support this project: $500 goal
Curtis Greaves, Principal; 700 students
Valerie Pelletier, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: This school is building a new library and needs to raise funds. Hands is partnering with Drexel University and their Center for Civic Engagement to raise $1,500.
Cash donations so that Hands can support the new library at Emmanuel High School.

 Peter has adopted this $100 project 
Fitz-Hughes Pre-School;
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Madeline Pierre, Principal; 30 students
Background from Hands: Peace Corps Volunteer Ted Fischer introduced us to this pre-school in the remote village of Fitz-Hughes.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new pre-school books.

 Pam and Phil have adopted this $1,000 project 
George Stephens Secondary;
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Anella Roban, Principal; 260 students
Background from Hands: Anella is creating a library with the help of her librarian. We shipped them some books last year, but they need many more as they are starting from scratch. They also need shelving.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books and shelving.

 Heather and David have adopted this $125 project 
Golden Grove Pre-School;
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Patricia Glasgow, Principal; 30 students
Background from Hands: This pre-school, located in the isolated Chateaubelair community, needs books for its young students.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books for pre-school children.

 Mark and Barbara have adopted this $300 project 
Greiggs Primary School;
FROM TOP:More photos from Fitz-Hughes Primary School in the isolated Chateaubelair community; Peace Corps Volunteer Ted Fischer started a jump-roping program, thanks to cash donations from Hands donors; during recess, the whole school comes out to jump rope with joy.

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Click to support this project: $225 goal
Edmira Walker, Remedial Reading Teacher; 150 students
Noah Halton, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: Noah has created an attractive library space, and has requested Magic Treehouse and leveled reading books.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new, requested books for the school library.

Kearton's United Community Organization;
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Click to support this project: $1,000 goal
Rudy Roberts, Director
Kiersten Anderson, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Kiersten Anderson: "This organization is focused on using sports, cultural, and reading activities to get youths off the streets after school." There's a 4H program and a literacy program among other many activities in a new building provided by the European Union and the St. Vincent Social Investment fund.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy books and art supplies.

Kingstown Anglican School Annexe;
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Joanne Lynch, Principal; 300 students
Background from Hands: This school has a vibrant literacy center and a passionate principal. We supplied reading books and resources in 2010 and now they need a printer/copier and some Scholastic Big Books.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy a printer/copier and some Scholastic Big Books.

 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Katie 
 SanFilippo have donated $420 toward this goal 
Kingstown Government School;
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Click to support this project: $1,000 goal
Mrs. Arthalie Doyle, Literacy Coordinator; 513 students
Katie SanFilippo, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: Mrs. Doyle is fully invested in her new library project to develop a love of reading among the student population. The school's freshly-painted library is awaiting new books and Katie's after school program needs books and art supplies.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books and arts and crafts supplies.
FROM TOP: Mammy Joy's after-school reading group in action; U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Noah Halton, Remedial Reading Teacher Edmira Walker, eager student reader, Principal Shirlen Maloney and Cecil Charles from the Ministry of Education in the Greiggs Primary School library; librarian Kim Barker and Principal Anella Roban standing with books in the George Stephens Secondary School library space.

Mammy Joy's Reading Group;
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Click to support this project: $300 goal
Joy Dublin, Director; serves 20 children
Background from Hands: Joy Dublin is a retired nurse who has returned from Canada to her hometown of Chateaubelair. She saw a need in the community and runs this after-school reading program from her house.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy books and school supplies for the after-school program.

Marriaqua Government School;
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Click to support this project: $500 goal
Erene Richardson, Principal; 150 students
Background from Hands: The current library is filled with old, moldy books, and the principal is excited about encouraging reading with new, exciting and age-appropriate books.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books for Marriaqua Government School's library.

 Randy & friends have donated 
 $1,150.75 to this project 
Mary Hutchinson Primary School;
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Oswald Robinson, Principal; 125 students
Background from Hands: This school, located on Union Island, is in need of new books, along with school supplies such as a printer, toner, pencils, and much more.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books and school supplies for Mary Hutchinson Primary.

National Council of Women;
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Click to support this project: $500 goal
Pat Carter, U.S. Peace Volunteer
Background from Pat Carter: This is a 40-year-old grassroots organization that serves women and famiies by lobbying on issues that affect them, in addition to working with the government's Department of Women and Gender. The National Council of Women has recently opened a library space, which serves as a place where women can read and gain access to information. The price of books in St. Vincent is prohibitive, so unfortunately the collection is small thus far. Along with books on women's issues, the council needs books by African, African-American, and Caribbean authors.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new women's and culturally-appropriate books for the National Council of Women.

 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Noah 
 Rios have donated $130 toward this goal 
Owia Government School;
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Click to support this project: $1,000 goal
Elva Springer, Principal; 174 students
Noah Rios, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: The school principal heads an enthusiastic committee comprised of teachers, parents and the Peace Corps Volunteer to create a library for this rural, isolated community on the north coast of St. Vincent.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books and arts and crafts supplies.

 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Jennifer 
 Ewart have donated $485 toward this goal 
Spring Village Methodist School;
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Click to support this project: $1,000 goal
Carol Edwards, Principal; 100 students
Jennifer Ewart, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: The school is being renovated from a one-room building with chalkboard dividers to walled classrooms with doors. Once the renovations are complete they hope to have a welcoming library space with new books to replace the old, moldy, outdated and inapproprtaie books.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books and arts and crafts supplies.
FROM TOP: U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Ann Crytser and Enna Bullock, HOD English at St. Clair Dacon Secondary School; Harriet flanked by Kingstown Anglican School Annexe's Remedial Reading Teacher and Deputy Principal Joanne Lynch in their Literacy Centre.

St. Clair Dacon Secondary School;
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Click to support this project: $300 goal
Enna Bullock, Head of English Department; 300 students
Ann Crytser, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: Ann started a successful book club at this school and when we met the HOD of English, she requested high-interest, low-level reading books for remedial readers.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books for remedial readers.

Stephanie Browne Primary School;
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Lorette Coy-James, Principal; 200 students
Background from Hands: We have supported this school with books and teaching materials for three years, and its been a pleasure working with the dedicated principal and staff members.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy requested teaching resources.

 Supporters of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer Chad 
 LaRoche have donated $670 toward this goal 
West St. George Secondary School;
ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Click to support this project: $1,000 goal
Asfo Stephens, Principal; 367 students
Chad LaRoche, U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer
Background from Hands: Chad is teaching remedial reading at the school and desperately needs new and appropriate books.
Cash donations so that Hands can buy new books for the library.

  
 
ways you can work with Hands...
how to donate funds
Cash donations can be made through a check made out to "Hands Across the Sea, Inc." and mailed to Hands Across the Sea, Inc., 411 Walnut Street, PMB 4218, Green Cove Springs, FL 32043.
Or you can donate via the secure PayPal interface on the Donate to Hands page. If you have a specific school or project you'd like to "adopt," please tell us in the Comments section of the PayPal interface or on your check. You'll help us fulfill the specific Wish Lists of our recipients.

how to donate books to Hands
If you'd like to donate new and nearly new books, please go to our Hands Book Drop page or contact us!

purchase books for Hands If you'd like to help us purchase nearly new children's books at a Friends of the Library Sale, please contact us!

sort or pack books for Hands Want to work hands-on? Please contact us!

host a Hands presentation or Hands fundraiser If you'd like to do either— contact us!

join the Hands Log eNews group If you would like to receive the Hands Log (e-mail newsletter) please click here. Just type "Subscribe" in the subject line of your e-mail and we'll keep you updated on the latest from Hands!

 
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Hands Across the Sea, Inc., is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization