Is there something from the US that we could bring to give to the SP natives we meet as a small gift? (Besides money!) Do the schools need anything in particular we could bring? Would a small gift be appreciated or scorned? Do people do this?

we always appreciate school supplies as they are so expensive here.

We brought rulers, colored pencils, crayons, etc. to the elementary school in Caye Caulker. You also might want to bring small trinkets, toys, or other small gifts like Beanie baby stuff or stickers to give to the kids. I have seen discouragement of sweets on this and other boards. We also bought some bottled water at Crazy Canucks for a couple of little girls selling bracelets. I think some of these kids are sent out all day to sell without a chance to eat lunch or drink.

Children's Books are a good idea.

Both the library and the elementary schools are in need of basic supplies - paper, pencils, glue sticks, crayons, colored pencils. Last summer the library was especially interested in children's books in Spanish. I haven't spoken with anyone in a few months so I don't know if those are still needed, but my hunch is they are.
It is worth contacting Djean for a list of specific items needed by the school in Dangriga. That city is not visited by as many as San Pedro, thus the need is greater. You can leave a box of supplies at the Maya Island Air desk when you land in Belize City and they will forward it to her in Dangriga.
As far as bringing things just to give away to the kids on the street - I recommend an older post by Reef Ransom on this subject. A search on this board for "gifts" should bring it up.

lawcucui, thanks for the consideration.

If anyone would like to contact me about school supplies you can e-mail at

[email protected]

I searched for a post by Reef Ransom. No luck. That name is not in the directory. Nothing comes up when I keyword gifts. I'd like to read that post though. Thanks for the tips lawcucui.

When you hand out goodies to kids on the street you are teaching them to be beggars. Please do not do that!

You are right Jesse. Thanks for the tip.

Joe Black needs some more steroids. (inside joke, sorry).

If you wanna' really help, support the San Pedro Social Club initiative.