An Update from Costa Rica

Hello Everybody,

This is Karen here, writing from Esterillos Oeste, Costa Rica. I asked Jerry for some email addresses because I wanted to write and update on the money that was so generously raised and sent by all of you to our school here. I have attached some pictures as well.

This is just an update as we still have about $700 left!!!! We will wait to send a final report, receipts and more formal thank-you when all the money is spent. The school board, teachers and parents are still discussing where the remainder of the money is best spent, some possibilities are: replacing all or part of the roof or purchasing new desks and other furniture.

So far with the money we have:

1) Completely redone the septic and drainage field with a state-of-the-art (two tank) system that will last for many, many years.

2) Completely redone the two washrooms and toilets. Before, only one worked and it was in a very bad state. Now, both washrooms are working and look beautiful. They are tiled and painted and the teachers proudly put “girls” and “boys” signs on the doors.

3) Completely redone the tank and drainage for the kitchen and dining hall.

4) Replaced and buried the electrical cables that go from the street to the school.

5) Purchased supplies for the after-school English and Art programs.

Kristy (community member) said she was lucky to be at the school the day it opened after “summer” break and saw the delight and joy on the teachers’ and children’s faces when they saw the new bathrooms.

The pictures I have attached here are “before”, “during” and “after” photos of the bathrooms as well as the septic tanks and the kitchen tank.

Again, thank-you all so much for this incredible donation that has made possible some really important improvements to our school here. It SO appreciated by all of the students, teachers, and parents.

Take care,

Karen