Books Donated to Philippines

Books Donated by St. Mark’s Episcopal Day School Reach Children in the Philippines

Last summer, St. Mark’s Episcopal Day School donated several years’ worth of curriculum books to the charity, READ Philippines, Inc., which helps reach very poor schools in remote areas in the Philippines. On March 15, the books finally reached their destinations at schools and day care centers located in a very remote area of Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, Philippines.

“Every few years, our school researches current trends in education and updates its books and workbooks to give our students the latest tools and resources for the highest quality education possible,” says Head of School, Cathy Hardage. “This leaves us with hundreds of books which are still in great condition and perfectly good for children to learn with. I can’t think of a better way for our older textbooks to be put to use, and I am thrilled we could provide books for these children.”

In a thank-you letter from Doreen Flippin, Chairman of the Board of READ Philippines, “The books were transported a distance across several mountains and a river before reaching the children, for many of whom this was the first time they have seen glossy, colorful books. These gifts were received with big smiles and uplifted their spirits and morale. They will serve as a big boost of encouragement for students to go to school and attend classes despite the difficult and dangerous terrain they have to walk from home to school.”

According to READ Philippines, Inc., the schools now have more books than pupils. This organization thrives off of volunteer support and funded the shipment of these books by holding a golf tournament at Blue Cypress Golf Club in Jacksonville.