Pack for a Purpose: Small Space. Little Effort. Big Impact.
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    Safaris Award 2014, Best Community Focused Property of Tanzania
    Accommodation

    Rhotia Valley Tented Lodge

    Pack for a Purpose does not condone visiting orphanages, as this can often lead to negative impacts on children. The accommodation or tour company working with the orphanage will deliver the supplies in a coordinated and respectful way so that the children can benefit from them. Your generosity is not diminished because you do not interact with the children.

    Project

    Rhotia Valley is a project completely embedded in the community of Rhotia in Tanzania. Its aim is to give support to the people of the Rhotia area, especially to the children. Rhotia Valley Children’s Home is our safe and cosy home for children of the local community for children who don’t have family to take proper care of them. We help over 400 children build their future–a promising future!

    Needs

    General School Supplies:
    Book Bags and Portable Solar Lights

    Text/Reading Books:
    (English) Age-Appropriate Story Books for All Ages

    Educational Games/Toys:
    Wooden Toys and Puzzles

    Clothing/Shoes:
    Jeans for Girls & Boys Ages 14 through 19 Years Old, New and Gently Used Clothing for Girls & Boys Ages 14 through 19 Years Old, New Bras for Ladies Ages 13 through 19 Years Old (Cup size A-C), New Underwear for Girls & Boys Ages 16 through 19 Years Old, Shoes for All Ages (3-19 years old, black shoes for school), and Socks for All Ages (3-19 years old)

    Linens:
    Bed Covers and Bed Sheets

    Kitchen:
    Bamboo Cups, Bamboo Plates, Forks, and Spoons

    Stories

    Initiatives Supported

    Child Welfare Education
    All the needs are current as of August 2, 2021
    Note: Location is approximated. If you see a lodging that is misplaced or missing, please contact us .

    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.