"Once you learn to read, you will be forever free." [Frederick Douglas]

Our mother, Joyce Schnappauf, inspired hundreds of children to be readers through her work as a librarian in the Ridgewood, NJ, Public Schools. She saw reading as an avenue for understanding the world we live in , the lives of people we might never meet and as an impetus for political and civic action. She understood that reading and education are the keys to freedom and equality. It seems fitting that we have a scholarship in her name supporting young people in Guatemala who, without our support, might not have access to the education and literacy she held so dear.

From the time we started the scholarship fund in 2018, we have provided school tuition for fiveto seven children, per year, in grades Pre-K through 8. In addition to the scholarships, the fund has been used to purchase food, books, and household goods (furniture, stoves, etc.) As we move into 2026, Bendicion de Dios and Under the Same Moon have grown tremendously. The school continues to expand, vocational options have been added and new housing is being constructed in San Juan Alotenango. In light of this growth, the Joyce Schnappauf Memorial Scholarship Fund will also be changing its focus moving forward. We are now focusing on family sponsorships which will involve providing families with school tuition, monthly food baskets and other needs such as furniture and stoves. The sponsorships will range from $600 - $1000 per year depending on the age of the children and needs of the family. Our hope is that we will be able to provide 10 family sponsorships in 2026.

Thank you so much for your generous support in honoring our mother and supporting theyoung people of San Juan Alotenango, Guatemala.

Rather than sponsor a child, at this time, I prefer to make a one-time donation in honor of Joyce H. Schnappauf.

Meet the Kids

Your sponsorship helps provide children with an education and the food and supplies necessary to complete a full year of schooling. For children living in poverty, the basic costs of school supplies can be the sole reason they cannot go to school. You are encouraged - but not obliged - to build a friendship with your sponsored child. They are eager and excited to hear about your life, and happy to share about theirs. Below we have included photos, name and ages of the children who are in need of a supportive and caring sponsor.

Once you have selected the child you would like to sponsor, click on the link below their photo to complete the process. The annual cost of sponsorship is $396.  

If you prefer to pay for sponsorship monthly, click the Monthly Recurring Donation button below. A $33 recurring charge will be made to your preferred account on a monthly basis. On the final payment screen, there will be an "Add special instructions to the seller" link. In that field, please enter the name of the child you would like to sponsor.