Holiday Cheer Brings Good Tidings to the Children of Mwanza

Dear Friends of Jane and Ron Peterson,
Thank you for your generosity in sending much needed school supplies to my mission projects in Mwanza, Tanzania.  I have been introducing the varied supplies to the students and staff in piecemeal as not to overwhelmed them with the abundance of your gifts that were generated from Jane and Ron’s Christmas party.  The students and teaching staff are thrilled with the diverse supplies and educational tools that you donated. 

Personally, the supplies have enhanced my tutoring sessions that I conduct in the evenings along with my classes during the day.  Please know that students are experiencing crayons, games, paints, play doh, puzzles, teaching aids for the first time.  Just the colors alone from the materials have enhanced their enjoyment of learning.

The glow sticks have been extremely useful to keeping my runners safe during the early dawn runs.  In fact, the sticks have also drawn attention to those who were hesitant to participate  - similar to the carrot in front of the cart I suspect!

The dolls were a tremendous hit, and they too have now enjoyed my weekend swim program with the students.  In fact, “Barbie” has never swum so well; it appears that she is training for the Olympics.  Won’t “Ken” be jealous!

Some of the items I have distributed to vulnerable youth that I have become acquainted with in the area. They are in awe and speechless with the balls, coloring books, matchbox cars and fun items that they have received from your donations.

Most importantly, the reams of colored and white construction paper, copy paper and lined tablets have been well received by both the students and the teaching staff.  The additional pens, pencils, and sharper’s have certainly jump started everyone into a most productive new semester.

You along with other donors have truly enhanced the students’ enjoyment and enthusiasm to learn!

On behalf of the children of Mwanza – thank you for your kindness and charity.

Sincerely,                                                                                                                               
Maryjane

P.S.  Special thanks to Karen who evidently took it upon herself to spread good cheer with her party hats and holiday accessories!  Most importantly, special appreciation to the “world class” party givers, Jane and Ron, for using their party as a vessel to give to the children in need.

6 a.m. runners sporting the "glow sticks."

Dawn is breaking in true grandeur.

Brotherhood found in the wake of running.