FAQ

How can I get involved?

What kind of clothing will you take?

We will accept gently used clothing from baby up to adult size medium/large, including long and short sleeved t-shirts, shorts, shirts, skorts, dresses, jeans, pants, jackets, hoodies, sweaters, underwear, caps, shoes, socks and flip flops. Please note that the girls in Laos dress conservatively so no mini-skirts or short dresses. Formal wear, swim suits, Halloween costumes and heavy winter clothing or boots are not useful.

What other items are useful?

The kids loved the soccer balls, skipping ropes, frisbees and art supplies that we took last time. We will also take school supplies, blankets and towels.

When do you need the clothing donations delivered?

How do I make a donation of money?

How do I sponsor a student?

For as little as $350 USD a year you can provide a year of post-secondary education for a working student, while $640 USD will provide full time post secondary education for one year. A two year commitment is required. Andrew's goal is to have scholarships for ALL the students graduating from the three orphanage schools. As we all know, education is the key to ending the cycle of poverty. Please contact Andrew directly andrewb@lotusvillalaos.com.

How is the money used?

We are 100% not for profit - so every dollar donated goes directly to the children. Funds collected in 2011 were used to build a new bathroom. Funds collected in 2013 built two new shower facilities, a kitchen, a well and paid for dental treatment. Give A Shirt is operated entirely by volunteers. Any one traveling to Laos pays all of their own costs, including transportation, meals and accommodation. We rely on Andrew to make decisions about which projects are most urgent and then we give our approval to him for the use of the funds.

Will you provide me with a receipt for my donation?

We have received charitable status and we can provide a receipt for any donation over $25.00. Name and address is required to mail the receipt. Receipts are provided at the end of the each year.

What if I want to travel to Laos with you?

At present we are planing a trip in late 2019 or early 2020. We can take a maximum of 20, so if you would like to join us please contact us. Please be aware that this is not your typical vacation. The hotel we stay in is spartan, with no televisions, phones or swimming pool! Luang Prabang has been designated as a UNESCO world heritage site and as such development is limited to local businesses. You will not see any Starbucks or Tim Hortons there. Be prepared for a long journey to Laos (30 hours of travel time), a significant time difference (13 hours) and long days of working. If you are okay with all of that, let us know! Please note that travel with young children may not be suitable due to the long van rides, hot weather and remoteness of some of the orphanages.