Oceans at Divi Little Bay
Project #1
The New Start for Children Foundation is a foster home with a maximum capacity of twenty children ranging in age from 0 to 18 years of age. The purpose in general is to foster strong, capable human beings and to assist parents/families who are in a critical and needy situation, with care and raising of their children. In particular, the introduction and offering of other kinds of educational and informative services, in order to stimulate the consciousness of the children towards the society in which they live.
Project #2
SECDA is the umbrella organization of St. Maarten’s independent day-care centres. Although it was already in operation, SECDA was formally founded in 2014. Their target group includes 400-500 0- to 4-year-old students, 4- to 12-year-old afterschool students, parents, and staff of the centres. SECDA contributes to St. Maarten by ensuring that staff members are equipped with knowledge of safety and education for the students in their care. They also provide opportunities for collaboration, create equal opportunity for each child to thrive no matter their status in life, and ensure that together we can provide a great foundation for every child who attends one of the centres.
Initiatives Supported
![Oceans at Divi Little Bay](https://www.packforapurpose.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/SECDA-St-Maarten-Polaroid.jpg?x11355)
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.