Jacana
Project
Children in the Wilderness (CITW) is an environmental and life skills education program focusing on the next generation of rural decision makers. It is the grass roots initiative of Wilderness and one of the few programs aimed at bridging the divide that exists between communities and wildlife.
The program hosts rural children living alongside Africa’s Parks and Reserves, teaching them the importance of conservation and inspiring them to care for their natural heritage so they become custodians of these areas in the future. CITW helps build and strengthen these children’s capabilities to cope with life’s challenges and develops their life skills to realise their greatest potential.
The programme is hosted through Eco-Clubs in the local schools and rewards their dedication and commitment with participation in annual CITW camps at Wilderness camps. The local teachers receive ongoing training for the CITW Eco-Club curriculum which complements the national environmental education syllabus.
Needs
General School Supplies:
Book Bags, *College-Ruled Paper, *Colored Pencils, Dry-Erase Markers, *Erasers, *Glue Sticks, *Handheld *Pencil Sharpeners, *Markers, *Pencils, *Pencil Cases/Bags, *Pens, *Rulers, and *Solar Lantern Lights
Wall Charts:
(English) Laminated World Maps
Text/Reading Books:
(English) Children’s Story Books
Art Supplies:
Acrylic Brushes and Paints, Beads for Bead Work, and Craft Scissors
Computer Hardware/Software:
Mobile Phones, *Solar-Powered Working Laptops, Tablets, and Working Laptops
Sports/Outdoor Activity:
Inflation Pumps, Netball/Basketballs, Soccer Balls, and Whistles
Clothing/Shoes:
*New Underwear (for Boys and Girls ages 12, 13 and 14 years old)
Health/Personal Grooming:
*Deodorant, *Face Cloths, *Soap, *Toothbrushes, and *Toothpaste
Office Supplies:
Printer Paper and Scissors
Initiatives Supported
Listed on this page are the specific needs requested by the community project(s) so you can choose exactly what to pack for a purpose and express your gratitude to the local community with the supplies you take them. If you prefer, you may reach out directly to them to inquire about items which may be available for purchase locally. Arranging visits to community projects is beyond the scope of our mission. If you wish to visit a project, contact the participant and they can let you know what is possible.
Candy and balloons are not on the needs list as they are harmful for the children and the environment for the following reasons:
• Few of the children benefiting from these projects have access to toothpaste, toothbrushes, or a dentist. The candy promotes cavities.
• The balloons once they become deflated are a choking hazard for local wildlife.
Instead of taking candy or balloons, use that space for additional requested supplies, as they are priceless.
