We began working with Felix Convent School four years ago. At that time, they informed us that they needed a bus - a request that was a bit out of our reach. Their need was justified: there were so many children who needed transport to and from school and their small vehicles were so crammed full, it was unsafe for children to travel any distance. But, we were a small non-profit, just starting out and such a large project seemed impossible.
Each year, they asked and each year we had decline. Until 2017. That year, we agreed to raise half the money - $4000 - for a used vehicle. The first year we raised $2000 and the following year we raised the other $2000. But, in that time, regulations and rules had changed, safety requirements tightened and the price of the vehicle increased.
And then Friends of Padhar Schools received an unexpected donation. With an additional $2000 and a bank loan for the remaining amount, Felix Convent School got its new bus this week!
It is shiny and new, with room enough for 40-45 children. As the children hopped into the seats, they said “new bus! new bus!” and were so excited to take the first ride.