Aussie Books for Zim is launching a crowdfunding campaign on Thursday to help it raise the $16,000 it needs to send two shipping containers of books to Zimbabwe,
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Chief executive and founder Alfred Chidembo said 60,000 books as well as library furniture, lab equipment and school uniforms had already been collected as a result of many generous donations made during recent months.
Now the business community and individuals throughout the Illawarra can help the shipment get there and immediately help thousands of children in villages throughout the country.
“We just have to get them over there so we can set up libraries in remote rural communities,” Dr Chidembo said.
“The shipment will impact on 6000 to 10,000 children immediately.
“But a library is a gift that keeps giving.
“Imagine the long term impact this shipment will have.”
“We are super excited about this next phase of our project as we are looking at making a bigger impact in 2019.
“With over 60 000 books, library furniture and stationary collected, we are ready to ship these to Zimbabwe from Australia.
“From this shipment, we will be able to set up over 30 libraries in total, directly influencing over 10 000 children.
“By working together and through the power of social media, we can empower children in disadvantaged communities and change their lives forever through improved literacy.”
Dr Chidembo said the goal was to ship everything to Zimbabwe by the end of the year so it can be distributed to the 30 new libraries in time for Term 1, 2019.
He said that would mean the children can start improving their literacy from day one.
Recently Aussie Books for Zim shipped more than 30,000 books and some stationery for the first libraries.
“Mavhurazi Primary school in Mudzi, Chinembiri SDA Primary School in Rusape and Parirewa Secondary School in Domboshava, Zimbabwe have benefitted so far,” he said.
“Over $21,000 worth of school uniforms have been donated to rural schools and $15,000 worth of rugby equipment were donated to Victoria High School in Masvingo, Zimbabwe in 2017”.
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