The Carpenter's Kids program is a partnership between the Anglican Diocese of Central Tanzania and the Episcopal Diocese of New York.  It was initiated by Bishop Roskam after she visited Tanzania.  Carpenter's Kids are Tanzanian HIV/AIDS orphans and other vulnerable children who are selected after screening by their parishes - the goal is 50 children from each of the 200 parishes.

The aim of the program is to ensure that each Carpenter's Kid receives a school uniform, a pair of shoes, and adequate school supplies each year to enable them to attend primary school.  The children will also be provided with breakfast on school days; this is esential as many children walk long distances to attend school, and are likely to arrive at school without having had any sustenance.

The cost of supporting a Carpenter's Kid is $50 per year.  This will provide one child with uniform, shoes, school supplies and breakfast for one year.

The goal is to have "linked parishes".  For instance, a parish in Tanzania will select 50 children from their parish and we, a parish in the Diocese of New York, will find 50 members of our congregation who are willing to donate $50 a year for five years (the 5 years will get a child through primary school).  The parishes will be linked by the internet and can be kept up-to-date on the children's progress.  At Regeneration, although small, we have been able to support 25 children and have partnered with another parish in Staten Island, who have supported the remaining 25.

Anyone wishing to learn more about the Carpenter's Kids program can visit their website at www.carpenterskids.net