H.E.A.P. (Honduras Educational Assistance Program)
What is H.E.A.P.?
H.E.A.P. is a program started in 2008 that offers a mechanism for sponsors to provide financial support for educational purposes to the community served by The Way and the Truth Ministry, led by Pastor Fidel. The H.E.A.P goal for the 2013 school year (February through November) is to support 200 children in the region of Choluteca, Honduras.
Why is H.E.A.P. necessary?
H.E.A.P. is necessary because all of the children in the community are very poor and can not afford school clothes and school supplies required to attend public school. The alternative to attending school is working in the fields or making bricks or worse - nothing. Educating the children benefits the entire community.
How much is necessary to send a child to school?
$100 US dollars will provide school clothes and school supplies for one child for one school year. Monies not used for the initial purchase of items are kept in the sponsored child’s account and Pastor Fidel and his wife Araceley buy supplies and replace clothes as needed throughout the year.
Is my sponsorship tax deductible?
Your donation is tax deductible and will appear on your year-end giving statement.
How do I sponsor a child?
A full sponsorship is $100, however, any amount given will help a child receive a much needed education.
1. Click the "See the Children" button at the top of this page to review the photos of the children.
2. Click the "Sponsor a Child" button at the top of this page and donate online in any amount (minimum of $10).
3. Pick up a H.E.A.P. coin collection container at the church, fill it with change, and return it to the church or office.
4. Sign up for Wednesday night dinner on October 24. Proceeds benefit H.E.A.P.
5. Purchase a set of maracas handmade by our friends in Honduras. 48 sets are available. Minimum donation: $10.
6. Donations by check are payable to Hickory Flat Church with H.E.A.P. indicated in the memo line.
How many children are in need?
There are hundreds of children in need and each year H.E.A.P. increases the number of children in the program. The program began in 2008 by supporting 50 children and will provide enough funds in 2013 to send 200 children to school.
A Message from the School Headmaster in the community:
I have seen a dramatic change in the community. The help sent by Hickory Flat Church has not only enriched the Church of El Camino y La Verdad that is partnered with them, but all the people in the surrounding area. There is tremendous growth in the number of children that have been given the opportunity for an education. These children are so proud of the fact that they have the uniforms, backpacks, and school supplies that are necessary for them to attend school. If not for these contributions, the children would have no hope for an education as their parents cannot afford to send them to school.
The children here have been changed because they suddenly have something other than the hope to be a great brick maker. It is difficult to know that there are children standing in the mud which consumes not only their bodies that are drained from the heat and hard work, but also their minds are left with no energy to learn. These elementary age children had souls that felt hopeless in their circumstance. Now there is hope, an ability to alter their future. Hickory Flat’s presence has transformed the community.
There is excitement in the air when the groups visit. We actually close the school early because the children are excited to visit with the “North American’s”. They come and share their faith, their gifts as God’s servants: digging the well, adding space for the children’s Sunday School classes, painting and maintaining the church building, giving medical, dental and vision aid, playing with the children, forming a bond with the community. Their presence and gifts have renewed the souls of our community. God Bless you all.
To learn more about the program:
Contact Dave Bowker, H.E.A.P. Coordinator