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Charity Report
Going Away? Give Back! Pack for a Purpose Program
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any tropical hotspot resorts are located in parts of the world with a much lower standard of living than ours. It can be difficult at times to avoid feeling guilty when indulging ourselves with so much, while locals often have so much less. But there are many ways to give back to your host countries when you visit, and the Pack for a Purpose program is one of the best. Founded in 2009, Pack for a Purpose is a non-profit organization working closely with local foundations, charities and schools in over 370 global collection points. They target specific needs in each location so that visitors might bring the most relevant items in their luggage to aid important causes and projects. The needs are eclectic. It could be art and music and school supplies, equipment for sports programs, educational toys and games, or even daily items we so take for granted, like soap, combs, deodorant, hair brushes, hair pins, elastic hair bands, hand cream, towels and linens. Every
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little extra can make a big impact. They estimate that if 500 individuals each pack 2.27 kg to give, they can provide 1.25 tons of supplies to community-based projects around the world. Pack for a Purpose currently supports over 300 communitybased programs in 47 countries. For example, Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort in Curacao is one of Pack for a Purpose's latest participants. They said, “We are proud members of Pack for a Purpose, an initiative that allows travelers like you to make a lasting impact in the community at your travel destination. If you save just a few kilos of space in your suitcase and bring supplies for area schools or medical clinics in need, you'll make a priceless impact in the lives of our local children and families. We are currently collecting items for a sick children's hospice, an after-school program and a local youth soccer club.� So why not make room in your suitcase to make someone else's life a little brighter? For more information, visit their website www.packforaprupose.org. SUSAN CAMPBELL Twitter: @suectravel