Helping Others

A few years ago, during Summer Camp, the RUSVM Prep School students learned of a single mother with four children moving from downtown Basseterre to an unfurnished one-bedroom apartment in the St. Kitts countryside. Seventh and eighth grade students volunteered to assist with the move. During the move, it was discovered that the family had only one set of single bunk beds (which was considered inadequate for the size of the family) and no other furniture. With the help of students and volunteers, the family, in two days, acquired a washing machine, a brand new bunk bed with a double mattress below and single above, kitchen stove, table, overstuffed chair, desk, bookcase, computer, dishes, pots and pans, small electrical appliances, sheets, clocks, and other household goods.

At the family's previous home in Basseterre, the students gathereed to carry boxes and suitcases downstairs and load them into vehicles. Upon arrival at the new location, the students unloaded the belongings and assisted in arranging the items in the appropriate places throughout the home. Students provided additional assistance to Mr. Jonathan Peeler, RUSVM Senior Facilities Manager, and to their teachers, as the team assembled the beds and arranged the furniture. Mr. Peeler also installed the stove and washing machine while Long Duong set up the computer.

When the younger students learned about the project, they were eager to get involved and decided to purchase food from the grocery store to stock the refrigerator.

The family was shocked and delighted—impressed that the students were willing to assist with the move of their household goods, but had no idea that they had also accumulated all the other items as a surprise.

The day was a fantastic experience for the family, but even more so for the students and their teachers.