Hi - I am Riya, a Freshman in College. It all started when I was in 6th grade and met Kelly, a Palo Alto school teacher who runs a literacy program for children in Haiti. When Kelly shared her story with us, my first thought was that I wanted to help her school. Giftkids was born, a small idea at first, to help these 36 Haitian kids with new shoes to encourage them to attend school everyday. The first daunting challenge was to raise funds. I marketed my idea via Instagram and Facebook, started an enthusiastic blog and was soon overwhelmed as friends and family chipped in to support. I researched many stores for the best prices and finally found a website which sold new goods to non-profits at deep discounts. At the first event in my house, a dozen of my friends helped wrap the gifts and write inspiring notes.  By the winter of 2018, our second event, we needed a larger space as we had more than twice the number of volunteers!

In the four years since its start, Giftkids today has helped over 100 kids in need in Haiti, India, and right here in San Jose, California. This is my story so far and it would mean the world to me if you could check out our work - I'd absolutely love to have your support!