Keerthana and Rashi… the unstoppable sibling duo. Their smiles—contagious. Their determination—relentless. Their dreams—immeasurable. Side by side, they are taking steps into a new future, one that was previously unimaginable for them. They pick up their backpacks and swing them around onto their backs, sliding their arms through the strap loops. The bags snuggle in against their spines, dependable and secure. The dark turquoise straps of their backpacks exuberate dignity as they rest on their shoulders. It’s like there’s no other place those straps can be, except lying on top of their shoulders.
They are so thankful for the backpacks that have been provided for them through The Hope Venture’s Backpack Project, because before they received them, going to school was difficult. Their parents don’t have stable and sustainable jobs. The work that they are able to get doesn’t pay a lot, and it’s pretty irregular. Their parents struggle to supply all the needs of their children, especially for books for school. According to their mother, not even the government helps them, and they feel pretty neglected. Even through all their efforts, there seemed to be no way to relieve any of the problems the family faced.
But then Keerthana and Rashi were able to receive a backpack filled with all the supplies they would need for the year, and circumstances changed. They were now ensured an opportunity to attend school and to strive for success. Any worries about affording their school supplies could no longer stand in the way. Their parents didn’t have to stress about stretching their finances to buy books and school supplies for them anymore.
A backpack. It’s something so simple! Now, because they received a backpack, Keerthana and Rashi can go to school. They are able to progress in their education and pursue their dreams of becoming teachers so they can help other kids just like them experience the joy, excitement, and dignity of being a student in a classroom.
