Tackling the Yearplan

Whilst I was in Ometepe, we gathered evidence of the many needs of the schools and formed them into a yearplan thinking of the best time tom offer support and the priorities across the schools.

Since my return we have funded three further projects.

The first was the repairs to the roof in the secondary school.  One of the classrooms had a rusted roof which let in the rain and with the approaching raining season it was clearly going to make for very uncomfortable learning and teaching.  With the help of Marvin and Pedro Antonio we purchased materials and the repair was made.

There was a repair to a retaining wall needed in the primary school, again to prevent the foundations being washed away by the heavy rains.  We found ourselves able to support this task too.

More recently we have supported the construction of a retaining wall to prevent the mud being washed downhill onto the children's play area.

Meanwhile the school used some of its monthly allowance to protect the wood in the classrooms we had supported them with decorating.

Once more we have supported the secondary school whose teams are participating in the local and regional tournaments.  Despite Coronovirus these events have continued, and our funds assist with transport and refreshments.  No requests have come from the primary schools.  I am imagining they are not participating this year because of the virus.

Next we are going to support el Corozal again with a repair to their wall.  I am awaiting the end of month report on our funds but know we have had some kind donations following my newsletter.  The single thickness wall offers no resistance in the heavy rainy season.

Work is now underway in June, having received a few donations during the month.

 The community are helping, collecting the stones needed for the construction.  The bricks, cement and sand have been purchased from the funds which will also pay for some labour costs.There is always a lot of hands on support from the community.  It is spare cash that is lacking, not enthusiasm or support.

We have also purchased a water dispenser as he school has not been able to use the washbasins when the water has been shut off.  They are concerned about hand washing in the current circumstances.  $10 seemed a small contribution to help against this silent enemy.

Small donations are coming in slowly and we will continue to address the plan wherever and whenever possible.  Everyone is aware of the challenging circumstances.  For me I am uplifted to know my friends there are praying for me and sending me strength to fight the cancer that has returned.  None of  us had a clue whilst I was there, and perhaps that's just as well or the tearful goodbye could have been even worse.

During the first week in June the communities and schools celebrate the day of the children.  There doesn't seem much to celebrate this year with the illness now affecting the community, but some children are still attending school.  I was asked to help el Corozal and 

Rafaela Herrera with their celebrations.  I had to explain that the virus has affected our income and we have to carefully consider our commitments, ensuring there is enough at the end of the year for uniforms and the university commitments..  Also I do not want to encourage them to bring people together at this time.  In the end I sent a small personal donation for sweets for the children.  It is a fine balancing act.