Throughout August, Bucket of Love Foundation in Kimbe, West New Britian have distributed essential resources to local villages through donors.
The team consisting of founder Tiana Reimann and with logistical support from: Liamo Reef Resort and Baia Sportfishing PNG, who provided transportation from Kimbe to Kove villages during a liveaboard sportfishing expedition with Australian tourists and Kimbe Bay Shipping Agencies, who handled shipping from Australia to Kimbe Port.
Over 500 students on various islands in the Kove & Gloucester region, including Potne Village, Kilenge Village, Tamuinai Island, Lagoon Point received buckets (donated by Ballina Memorial Pool and Waterslide), sporting equipment (donated by Somerville House and purchased in Kimbe Town), reading books (donated by BOOKS 4 PNG KIDS) and various stationery (purchased in Kimbe Town).
When asked what prompted these donations, Reimann responded that these villages have a disadvantage when it comes to accessibility of such resources.
“One of the primary struggles for students is obtaining basic stationery items like pens and exercise books, hindering their ability to learn and succeed.”
“Furthermore, the scarcity of water on the islands poses a significant threat to the health and well-being of the villagers.
“Retrieving fresh water from the mainland requires a laborious canoe ride, making our donated buckets a vital lifeline.”
Reimann further explained that the benefits of buckets go beyond just storing fresh water.
“These buckets can also be used for laundry and dishwashing, waterproofing valuables and safely storing food from rodents.”
She added that since receiving the donated items there has been significant improvement in the villager’s livelihood.
“The exercise books and stationery directly improve their classroom learning, while the buckets indirectly help them with their domestic chores by offering a stable way to store water and other necessities.”
“Furthermore, the sporting equipment promotes a sense of community and social connection, encouraging students to participate in physical activity, form new friendships, and develop a lifelong love of sports, which in turn, encourages healthier, more active lifestyles and strengthens communal relationships.”
“By addressing both academic and extracurricular needs, our donations create a positive ripple effect that reaches well beyond the classroom, encouraging students to excel in all parts of life.”
Reimann thanked the organizations that assisted in making these donations possible and adds that the foundation is seeking like-minded individuals and partnerships to collaborate and make an impact in communities.
“Before discarding items, consider the potential value they could bring to others.”
“Your thoughtful donations can bridge the gap for marginalized communities, empowering them to thrive.”
“Every individual has the power to create positive change.”
“By donating, volunteering, or spreading awareness, you can be a force for good.”