In September, 2015 the Helping Humanity Fund distributed school supplies to 550 students in 5 schools located in Van Lam, Vietnam and surrounding areas.
Our cost to supply each student for this trip, came in at $5.76 for an annual supply package. Supply packages consisted of 20 notebooks, 10 pens, and a piece of candy.
We saw a 30% decrease in the cost to supply each student compared to our previous trip back in January. Back then, our costs were $4.13 for 6-month supply package ($8.26 annualized).
There are a few reasons for this decrease in costs per package, including:
1. Most significantly, we pre-ordered everything in advanced from the supplier. This guaranteed us both the volume as well as the best prices, versus just going to a store and buying. Considering that we purchased around 3.5x more supplies compared to our previous trip, it became an absolute necessity to pre-order.
2. Because we were transporting a lot more items, and shipping was arranged professionally, shipping costs per package were reduced.
3. Wrapping the packages was provided free of charge by the suppliers. In previous visits, we had to pay for wrapping paper and ribbons. Though it was a nominal expense, every little bit counts.
4. A local supporter had lent his van out to us, which saved us on rental costs.
It is our desire in the future to continue to look for ways to minimize cost, while maintaining the purchase of quality notebooks and pens for the students.
We intend to continue this program annually, every September when the school year begins. It is our hope that this grows in the future.
Here is a breakdown of this year’s expenses: (Receipts can be viewed by clicking here.)
Supplies + VAT tax: 68,347,000 VND ($3,048.48 USD)
Candy: 600,000 VND ($26.77 USD)
Shipping expense: 2,000,000 VND ($89.21 USD)
Total Expenses: 70,947,000 VND / $3,164.46 USD
$3,164.46 divided by 550 students equals $5.76 per student.
* These expenses are calculated at the exchange rate of 22,420 VND / 1 USD
Here are some photos of the project:
