resources & questions
"We cannot do great things on this Earth, only small things with great love.”
Mother Teresa
"If you think poverty is just a Third World problem, think
again." Corridor of Shame: Neglect of South Carolina's Rural Schools.
For more information view the Corridor
of Shame website. Also take a moment and watch the Corridor of Shame: Neglect of South Carolina's Rural Schools available on You
Tube.
Q. How can I get involved with The Pencil Project?
A. We are always looking for individuals, families, school , church or community minded groups to get involved. We match you up with a needy school that will benefit directly from the pencils you collect. We generally like to deal with one contact person/coordinator and will be responsible for getting you all the information that you need.You are responsible for setting your own goals and the time frame in which you will complete them.
If you are a school/orphanage in need of pencils, please send us your school name, address, contact person and estimated number of students. We will be happy to connect you with a group that is eager to help you!
Q. How will we pay for postage?
A. Your organization is responsible for collecting postage. Usually it is not too much to ask for a one dollar donation in addition to a pack of pencils that will go toward shipping costs. Check with local businesses in your area. Many may be eager to sponsor this small cost.
Q. Do you only send to third world countries?
A. Not at all. Many schools on our list are right here in the USA. You are able to choose a foreign or domestic school to help.
Q. What should we do when our pencil drive is complete?
A. Ship your pencils and send us your success stories! We love to post photos and testimonials on our site so others can see the fruits of your labor and the wonderful impact you are helping to create!
Q. Are we able to choose the foreign country that we would like our pencils to go?
A. We will do our best to accommodate this request.
Q. How many pencils should we collect?
A. Again, that is entirely up to you. Sometimes we will let you know approximately how many students are enrolled at the school if we have that information on file.
Q. How should we package the pencils?
A. Padded envelopes or shoeboxes wrapped in plain, brown paper are best. Unfortunately there is a chance of theft in some countires if packages look too "pretty". Plain and simple is best.
Q. This is a great cause! Do you accept cash donations?
A. Not at this time. We are simply a vessel that puts organizations together through our database.
Q: Can we send other things besides pencils like blankets or other school supplies?
A: This is often possible. Please contact Maria directly for more information