SchoolTools: School Challenges in Vietnam

The people of Vietnam, though residing in one of the poorest nations in the world, greatly value education. In a society plagued by unemployment, overpopulation, and poverty, education is the way out; the means to a better life. However, without proper supplies, even this bit of hope cannot become reality. School kits provide a vital way for children in Vietnam to improve their future, by supplying them with basic educational tools. This letter from a young Vietnamese girl shows the impact which School Kits have on the poor in Vietnam:

"My name is Nguyen Thi Quynh Nhu. I am in grade 6. I live in a large and poor family. My mother got serious disease and experienced operation in the hospital, which added difficulties to my family. In November 1999, the flood happened and swept away all of the books, clothes of my family. I was very sad and intended to drop school. My teachers, friends helped me and especially I received the gift from children in the United States. All of these concerns have partly

reduced the difficulties and encouraged me. Since then I have confidence in life and passion for studying. I think that I am not alone. Not only friends in my country but also friends from outside the country cared for me. I’d like to say sincere thanks for the kit. I wish my above thoughts could fly to my friends in the United States." -- Quynh Nhu