The Nick Singh Foundation Celebrates First Program Success, Equipping 300 Students Across Sint Maarten with School Supplies and Enrichment Programs
The Nick Singh Foundation
thenicksinghfoundation@gmail.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Nick Singh Foundation Celebrates First Program Success, Equipping 225 Students Across Sint Maarten with School Supplies and Enrichment Programs
LONG ISLAND, NY | September 2025 –
The Nick Singh Foundation
(NSF) proudly celebrates the success of its first program, SchoolFuel, which launched this August through their project in Sint Maarten (SXM) in partnership with the
RISE Foundation on their first back-to-school drive. What began as an anniversary milestone for NSF quickly grew into a joyful, community-driven moment that reached more than 300 children across the island.
In the classrooms of ACE Foundation, Oranje School, Leonald Connor School, and 721 Kids Foundation, students were welcomed into a new school year with dignity, resources, and a whole lot of joy. What made the initiative special was not just the delivery of school supplies, but the energy of collaboration between nonprofits, sponsors, volunteers, and of course the children themselves.
The students participated in creative, hands-on sessions designed to spark both critical thinking and self-expression. Brandon Street and Lilly Barkes of
Listen to Our Future
led a powerful project-based learning workshop where students tackled issues affecting their communities, ranging from racism and bullying to sexual assault and community violence, and worked together to brainstorm solutions. Reflecting on the experience Lilly Barkes shared, "Listen to Our Future Inc. have the privilege of connecting with students and hearing about what they care about. It is amazing to see young people so passionate about life, learning, and problem solving.”
At the same time, Tiffany Castillo of
TM Talent NY energized classrooms with dance and movement infused with affirmations, teamwork, and fun, strengthening focus, coordination, and confidence. “Education looks different in all areas of the world. And we don’t realize how blessed we are to have the education standards and programs we have in the states. We came to St.Marteen to provide those tools and knowledge to help the children of St. Marteen be the best versions of themselves and achieve their fullest potential,” Tiffany said.
A centerpiece of NSF’s contribution came from Long Island itself. Through the generosity of our community, we were able to gather and transport supplies from the U.S. to Sint Maarten, creating 10 teacher resource boxes distributed across the four schools. These boxes, designed specifically to support Cycle 1 classrooms, offered essential tools to strengthen teaching and day-to-day learning. Additionally, NSF was able to collaborate with
Little Saint Nick Foundation to give goodie bags filled with Squishmallows, pop sockets, coloring books, inspirational cards, and more to New Start Foster Home. For many of these kids, the surprise gifts brought comfort and excitement as the NSF team joined in, playing card games, sharing laughs, and reminding them that they are seen, valued, and celebrated. For NSF, this was a reminder that when neighbors come together, whether on Long Island or in the Caribbean, people everywhere can benefit.
RISE Project Manager, Priya Misir, added, “Inviting the Nick Singh Foundation from the US was one of the highlights of this drive. They brought not only much-needed supplies for teachers but also unforgettable experiences for our kids—through STEM activities, dancing, and encouragement. Their willingness to come all this way showed our community and our children that they are worth the investment. It Starts With Us.”
“This collaboration showcases the boundless opportunities that exist when NGOs unite with the same heart for youth and community. We look forward to building on this momentum and continuing to expand our impact together,” said the RISE Foundation team.
Nick Singh, Founder of The Nick Singh Foundation, added, “We are deeply grateful to the RISE Foundation for inviting us to be part of such a meaningful initiative, and to our generous sponsors—Pollos Hermanos, Paradise Inn, Motorworld, and all the donors—who made this possible. Seeing the children light up with joy as they received their school supplies, danced with passion, and engaged in activities that encouraged positivity and critical thinking was truly unforgettable.
These supplies ensure that students can enter the classroom without the burden of lacking resources, empowered to learn and thrive throughout the year. None of this would have been possible without our incredible volunteers—Brandon, Emily Rivera, Lilly, Tiffany , and Anthony—whose dedication brought the vision to life.
At The Nick Singh Foundation, we believe in the power of collaboration, and this project was a beautiful reminder that when communities, organizations, and individuals unite, we can create lasting change and bring joy where it’s needed most.”
Chiaira Bowers, President of the RISE Foundation, added, “This was an opportunity for everyone to learn from each other and experience true camaraderie. Hearing the voices of our youth — their concerns, their ideas, their solutions — gives us fuel for future projects and opportunities to keep improving our island. And seeing the pure energy and excitement from the kids reminded us why this work matters so much.”
The initiative was also lifted by thoughtful local contributions—Carl & Sons Bakery donated raisin buns, Kam’s Trading provided juices,
Paradise Inn hosted the visiting volunteers,
Motorworld ensured transportation needs were met, and
Pollos Hermanos
shared a celebratory meal with the teams. Media support from
Dr. Soc and Island 92 further amplified the drive, helping the project flourish.
As NSF closes this years SchoolFuel project, the Foundation looks forward to carrying the momentum forward, building more partnerships, empowering more youth, and showing communities everywhere why your help matters.
To learn more about The Nick Singh Foundation, donate, or join upcoming projects, visit
www.thenicksinghfoundation.org or follow @thenicksinghfoundation on
Instagram
and
Facebook.
Media Coverage in Sint Maarten
For press inquiries or additional photo assets, please contact Emily Rivera at thenicksinghfoundation@gmail.com
Photos by Chiaira Bowers
Photos by Emily Rivera




About SchoolFuel
SchoolFuel is an annual back-to-school campaign designed to equip classrooms and empower futures. Focused on underserved schools and communities, SchoolFuel provides essential classroom supplies, student resources, and hands-on enrichment activities. Each year, the Foundation will partner with a school or region in need, rallying its community of supporters to fuel the academic journey ahead. Through creative projects and the power of collective giving, SchoolFuel helps spark the inspiration and confidence students need to start the year strong.
About The Nick Singh Foundation:
The Nick Singh Foundation Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to uplifting individuals and families in need worldwide. Through strategic collaborations with organizations, businesses, and public figures, we maximize our impact, ensuring help reaches those who need it most. Our mission is amplified through powerful multimedia storytelling, inspiring change and fostering hope across communities. We operate with full transparency, efficiently utilizing funds while allowing donors and sponsors to be actively involved in the projects they support. Join us in making a lasting difference—because together, we can create a world filled with compassion, kindness, and opportunity for all.
About RISE Foundation
RISE Foundation is a dynamic non-profit organization dedicated to supporting vulnerable youth, families, and communities in Sint Maarten. Our core programs focus on youth and family development, disaster relief, holistic rehabilitation, and meaningful holiday outreach. Through community-driven initiatives, we empower individuals to rise above adversity and build stronger futures. Together, we can create a resilient nation where no one is left behind—and everyone has the opportunity to rise, thrive, and belong.










