A Birthday Trip to Brazil Makes a Big Impact in the Community
My name is Feh and helping others has always been a passion of mine since I was a young girl. I am the daughter of 2 immigrants from Cameroon. Cameroon is a country full of resources and beautiful people but has its own issues. I had the opportunity to travel there to visit my family members and had the opportunity to visit an orphanage and a hospital made for pregnant women. What I saw was gut wrenching. The children’s clothes were torn, they lacked water, the hospital had less than 10 beds, and they lacked sanitation supplies. This inspired me to return the next year and bring the supplies that they needed. Ever since then, I had this wish list that said that with every country I visit, I will find the opportunity to serve the community.
For my birthday, I wanted to travel outside of the country and Brazil was my first choice. Brazil has been a dream place of mine for a long time. I fell in love with the culture, the people, the food, and the atmosphere. I believe I connected so much with Brazil because just like Cameroon, the people are strong willed and so passionate. I requested that for my birthday, we go to a children’s center and donate supplies that they need. Pack for Purpose was the perfect opportunity to do so. What drew me to Pack for Purpose is that this is an NGO that reaches all over the world. The fact that this NGO aims to improve the lives of children in need made me ecstatic to help out. I gathered clothes and school supplies from family and friends. I also bought items from the store as well. My friends that accompanied me on this trip also gathered supplies from family, friends, and colleagues over a period of time. We made sure that the items fit the weight requirement for the airport.
As we arrived at the center, I was over-joyed by how much support these children receive. The workers there were so friendly and helpful, and I am happy to have met Maria who was so warm. We were able to take some pictures with the children and I was happy to see that they loved the crayons we brought. The children were delightful and made my trip an experience that I will never forget.
After donating the supplies, we were able to sit down with Maria and discuss the makings of the center and what the children go through. I learned so much about the favelas and the political issues that Brazilians experience. I also got a better understanding of the school system. What really surprised me was that school supplies in Brazil are very expensive. It made me glad that my friends and I were able to do our part and help. I will hopefully make my way back to Pack for Purpose and hope to do as much as I can for the children. I appreciate the opportunity. Hope to see you again!
