The International Bidon Project

The International Bidon Project empowers youth across borders by providing essential resources, fostering global connections, and inspiring students to pursue education, opportunity, and lifelong growth.

We envision a world where students everywhere—regardless of geography or circumstance—have the resources, encouragement, and global connections needed to pursue their education, realize their potential, and build thriving communities.

The International Bidon Project is a global service initiative of the A.S.H Foundation that connects students across borders through the collection and distribution of essential school supplies, clothing, books, and toys.

Each year, our community participates in roughly six-week collection drive, gathering donated items that are carefully sorted, organized, and packed into bidons for international shipment. Working in partnership with schools in São Vicente, Cabo Verde, our coordinators ensure supplies reach students directly.

Through this program, we not only provide tangible resources but also foster cultural connection, empathy, and a shared commitment to education. By linking youth from our community with youth abroad, the International Bidon Project inspires students to see themselves as part of a global network of learners and leaders.

  • Escola Primaria de Salamansa – Middle to High School

    São Vicente: The Salamansa Basic School has gained a library named after the singer Grace Évora, the school's patron. Housed in a shipping container repurposed for this specific use, the library was brought to fruition through the involvement of various sponsors, including the Portuguese Cultural Center of Mindelo and the Salamansa educational community.The inauguration ceremony was attended by the local Ministry of Education Delegate, Maria Helena Andrade, the singer Grace Évora, and the entire educational community.

    Creche Kiloa – Newborn & Toddlers.

    Nonprofit daycare organization. Mission statement: Where care creates love, and every child grows up happy.


  • Youth-led service learning initiative where participants collect, organize, and pack school supplies to support students in Cabo Verde. The project builds on the long-standing Bidon Project, originally started by the Cape Verdean Student Alliance at UMASS Amherst and connects youth leadership with global community support. Over six weeks, SABURA youth develop leadership skills, while preparing the the final Bidon Packing Day in collaboration with the ASH Foundation. 

    Week 1; Service Leadership

    Week 2: Global Citizenship

    Week 3: Project Planning 

    Week 4: Community Supply Drive

    Week 5: Sorting & Organizing

    Week 6: Bidon Packing Day