A fundraising party, organized by Trait d’Union USA-Mauritius, took place in Mclean, Virginia (USA), in the backyard of Suzanne Kon Kam King and David Loken on Saturday, June 15, 2019. It was attended by around eighty people, consisting of Mauritians and friends of Mauritius. The atmosphere was overflowing with energy, friendship and solidarity to help the children of Mauritius. The first prize for a bingo game was a Dodo stuffed animal, which delighted the winner, an American guest. The prize for a raffle was a “corbeille ménagère” containing spices and teas of Mauritius.

Marie-Line Han, an avid volunteer, offered her reasons why she attends the fundraiser every year. “I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to live a comfortable life in the US. There is nothing more rewarding than to be able to give back to my beloved country, in particular to the children of Mauritius. The funds will help Plaine St. Cloud RCA Primary School, at Pamplemousses, towards new paint and new toilets. We feel very blessed to contribute to this amazing cause.”

 Last year, Trait d’Union USA-Mauritius  sent $15,000 to the Diocese of Port-Louis. Suzanne Kon believes passionately that helping others is a rewarding accomplishment in life. She learned from her father that “Doing good deeds and helping others will always come back tenfold to you and your family”. Marie-Louise Ah-Kee, another volunteer, visited Souillac RCA Primary School (2018 school project) in February 2019. She mentioned that it was a pleasure for her to see the children smiling and enjoying their new and pleasant learning environment.

Others present included the Minister Counsellor from the Embassy of Mauritius, Mr Ahyao Lam, Father Alain Romaine, Episcopal Delegate, and Dr. Gilberte Chung, Executive Director, Service Diocésain de l’Éducation Catholique. They expressed their appreciation to the people and thanked them for their support. Cardinal Maurice Piat, in his thank you letter to the contributors in the US, mentioned that a newly renovated infrastructure, with a safe healthy environment, motivates the students to go to school.

 By Suzanne KON KAM KING

From Washington, DC