Newlyweds James and Courtney Bonanno were in search of adventure on their honeymoon trip to Africa but found something more meaningful.
After exploring the safaris of Kenya back in October, the couple visited a local school called Laburra Primary School. There, the two had an eye-opening experience meeting students between the ages 6 and 14.
“It was extremely humbling,” said James, who co-owns The Tap Room. “The kids were smiling and happy, but they are very poor.”
The Bonannos then met with the school’s principal to see how they could help— they were quickly pointed to an outdoor wooden shack and dirt patch that was used as the education center’s kitchen and dining area.
“The kids sit in the dirt and eat there, and if it’s windy it gets in their food,” James said.
To build a brand-new area for the 400-student school, the cost is $25,000, according to Laburra’s principal. That price will cover the building, ovens and kitchen equipment, benches and tables.
With that information, the Long Islanders are using their resources at home to help. On Sunday, March 3, the two will be hosting a fundraiser at The Tap Room with all the proceeds going toward building the school’s much-needed infrastructure.
The event, which begins at noon, will feature live music, free food, raffles, and a cash bar. There is a $20 suggested donation at the door.
“We have a lot of great people in our community and we think we have the ability to make a difference,” said James.
If you can’t make it, you can donate online.
