current projects
noralma’s closet
In February of 2021, Hands For Humanity was informed by the sister’s at Hogar de Belen orphanage that their backup emergency stock of baby clothes was empty. We responded by sending funds to fulfill these immediate needs, and our very own Noralma (click on our “About” page to meet her!) went shopping to purchase the essential items. Getting the babies what they need AND supporting the local economy, double whammy!
From this, an idea that had been brewing came to fruition. We never want to receive the message that newborns being born into the orphanage do not have the basic necessities to keep them safe and healthy again, so we started Noralma’s Closet. Our goal is to always have the supplies in stock at the orphanage to welcome any newborn into the world. With the initial fundraiser through Facebook, we were able to raise $515! We are still filling immediate needs at the orphanage, but continue to work towards our goal of always having the necessities in stock.
scholarships
Founded in 2008, the scholarship funds offered by Hands For Humanity are meant to help students who recognize the importance of education and hope to serve the communities in which they live. Recipients are selected based on need, commitment to education and leadership potential.
The cost for a student to attend college in Ecuador has increased dramatically in just the past few years. Compared to college tuition in the United States, costs are minimal but out of reach for many young students living in Ecuador. Tuition expenses for four years of college in Ecuador costs anywhere from $2,000 to $8,000. There are also additional fees and out of pocket expenses along with the tuition that should be considered, which Hands For Humanity scholarship funds also help to offset.
We love to match donors with recipients, where a donor can sponsor a student’s entire four years. This allows a relationship to form and build between the sponsor and student and can be an incredibly rewarding experience. However, we also accept donations of all sizes that can be put toward the general scholarship fund. All donations are tax-deductible.
With the help of generous donors, many students in Ecuador have been able to receive a university level education that they might not have otherwise had. This is an example of the ongoing relationship between the community of Portoviejo and Hands For Humanity.
ongoing wishlist
New or gently used children’s clothing - newborn thru teenage sizes
Sandals
Underwear
Camis for young girls
Hair ribbons/ties
Hygiene products: Liquid soap, toothpaste, brushes, floss, deodorant, shampoo washcloth, hand towel, bath towel
School supplies: pens, pencils, notebooks
Stickers for kids