This year, our Chapter 16 Gita Jayanti class is taking on a special challenge.

After learning about global poverty and reviewing charity evaluator GiveWell's recommendations for some of the world's most cost-effective charities, our class voted to support Helen Keller Intl's Vitamin A Supplementation Program.

In many parts of the world, children still die from illnesses that become far more dangerous because they lack something as simple as vitamin A. One year's supply of vitamin A capsules costs only about $2 USD per child, yet it can dramatically reduce the risk of death in areas where vitamin A deficiency is common. Through this program, Helen Keller Intl helps protect children during some of the most vulnerable years of their lives, giving them a better chance to grow up healthy and thrive.

Based on GiveWell's analysis of grants made between 2022 and 2024, every $3,500 USD directed to this program was estimated to statistically save one life while also preventing countless cases of illness.

Our goal is to raise $1,750 USD (approximately $2,485 CAD). Thanks to an employer donation-matching program, every eligible donation will be matched dollar for dollar, bringing the total impact to approximately $3,500 USD — the amount GiveWell estimates is enough to statistically save one life through this program.

Throughout the term, students will earn points for attending class, learning verses, and participating. We'll share regular progress updates as we work toward our goal together.

Thank you for following our class as we work toward our goal of helping save a life through one of the world's most cost-effective health interventions.