Pennsylvania Girl Collects Shoes, Sports Equipment for Orphans in Guyana

When 6-year-old Brooke Pasquinelli of Greenberg, PA, saw a story on TV about children sending shoes to orphans in need, she paid close attention.

Brooke’s mom, Melissa, says that Brooke was inspired by the program to help children in a similar way. Melissa and her husband Brett are supporters of Food For The Poor, and it occurred to them that they could make a difference in the lives of some of the children we serve.

The Pasquinellis contacted Food For The Poor, and learned that many of the orphans in our Angels Of Hope program are in need of uniform shoes so they can attend school.

“Once we found out the type of shoes the orphans need, we asked friends and family for the shoes,” says Melissa. “Brett and I took Brooke out. She helped us choose the shoes and pack the boxes.”

 

In all, the family collected 40 pairs of shoes. They included a pair of socks with each, and they also donated sporting equipment such as soccer balls and jump ropes. Tucked into the six boxes they filled, which will be sent to an orphanage in Guyana, they added pictures of their family and a letter from Brooke.

Brooke’s letter reads in part:

“I have been learning a lot about Jesus, at church, and the love he has for everyone. I learned that his love is never ending, and expects his followers to give help to others. I have spent the past few months collecting shoes to give to all of you. I hope these shoes help you with going to school and bring to you a little of Jesus’s love.”

Mom Melissa says that Brooke is a typical little girl, and that the process of collecting and donating the shoes has been a learning lesson for her.

“We wanted her to understand what the shoes mean to these kids,” says Melissa.

If you are inspired by Brooke’s example and wish to donate goods to Food For The Poor, please review the list of needed items provided by our Gifts in Kind department.