“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Nelson Mandela
ADELANTE ESTUDIANTE
The Gift of Education
One day a man was walking along the beach when he noticed a boy picking something up and gently throwing it into the ocean. Approaching the boy, he asked, “What are you doing?” The youth replied, “Throwing starfish back into the ocean. The surf is up and the tide is going out. If I don’t throw them back, they’ll die.” “Son,” the man said, “don’t you realize there are miles and miles of beach and hundreds of starfish? You can’t make a difference!”
After listening politely, the boy bent down, picked up another starfish, and threw it back into the surf. Then, smiling at the man, he said…” I made a difference for that one.”
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PROGRAM DETAILS
You can help make a difference in the future of a child by sponsoring their education. Public education in Mexico is not free past secondary school, and many low-income parents cannot afford the cost. We currently have over 100 sponsored students, with over 50 students in college. We have many more children on the waiting list. Click here to view answers to our most frequently asked questions.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR SPONSORSHIP?
Students attending public schools in the greater Guaymas area, with at least an 80% out of 100% grade-point average from low-income families are eligible for sponsorship. We occasionally fund students in primaria and secondaria school when their families cannot afford to buy school uniforms and supplies. Click here to read profiles of students who are currently on the waiting list.
HOW DOES THE PROGRAM WORK?
STUDENTS
Student counselors at local schools refer eligible students to Castaway Kids. Students submit an application and our selection committee evaluates each applicant to verify economic status and grades. If approved, the student is added to our waiting list for sponsors.
The reputation of our program is growing, and sometimes we get independent referrals. However, the approval process is the same. All currently enrolled students with an 80% or better GPA and low-income status are put on our waiting list for sponsors.
SPONSORS
People interested in sponsorship can elect to have a student assigned or they can review the waiting list and select their own student. Castaway Kids facilitates the exchange of information between student and sponsor. Sponsors may take a hands-off approach, or they can request to meet and get to know their student and their family.
We request that sponsors continue support for their student through to graduation. If you aren't interested in making a multi-year commitment, we hope that you will consider making a donation to our general student fund. 100% of your donation will go to a student in need. You can also make a one-time donation to help a student who has lost their sponsor.
Click here for more information about sponsorship.
Click here to view the waiting list, or here to submit a donation.
WHAT DOES IT COST?
Costs vary by grade level and exchange rates. We ask for a lump sum donation to open an account for a student and pay for the first year of sponsorship. 100% of your donation goes to your student. After the first year, requested donation amounts are estimated based on past costs.
No money changes hands with students or their families. All supplies are paid for through pre-paid vouchers, and tuition is paid directly to schools.
Primaria (Primary/Elementary School, grades 1 – 6)
up to $250 USD per school year
At this school level, our sponsors pay for uniforms, a backpack, school supplies, and school shoes.
Secundaria (Junior High School, grades 7 – 9)
up to $250 USD per school year
At this school level, our sponsors pay for uniforms, a backpack, school supplies, and school shoes.
Preparatoria (Senior High School, grades 10 – 12)
up to $500 USD per school year
At the Preparatoria level, our sponsors pay for uniforms, a backpack, school supplies, school shoes, and the additional tuition charge.
Universidad (College / University)
up to $1,000 USD per school year
Only $1,000 USD annually will pay the tuition at a Mexican university. We have students in universities in Guaymas, and also in neighboring cities of Hermosillo and in Obregon, and as far away as Tijuana and Mexico City.