In the midst of a global pandemic, one young woman’s determination and empathy have sparked a movement of hope and change. Evangeline Pardasie, the 24-year-old founder of the Eva Foundation, has quickly become a beacon of inspiration in Trinidad and Tobago. Her mission, rooted in passion and purpose, is a testament to the profound impact one individual can have on their community.
The Genesis of a Vision
Evangeline Pardasie, whose name fittingly means “Bearer of Good News,” was born in Mt. Hope and now calls Diamond Village home. Her journey to founding the Eva Foundation is as unique as it is inspiring. With a background in engineering and a career in marketing, she brings a distinctive blend of technical acumen and promotional expertise to her philanthropic endeavors.
The story of the Eva Foundation began in 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Amid the global uncertainty, Evangeline recognized a growing need for support and assistance within her community. “Passion and purpose,” she says, were the driving forces behind the foundation’s inception. Having been adopted at the eight days old, under challenging circumstances, Evangeline’s empathy for people, especially children, is deeply personal. “I always had a heart for kids,” she reflects. “It felt natural to take steps to improve their lives.”
From Community Advocate to Foundation Leader
Before launching the Eva Foundation, Evangeline was no stranger to community service. As President of a local club, she spearheaded numerous initiatives that brought tangible benefits to her community. These experiences not only honed her leadership skills but also solidified her commitment to making a difference.
The onset of COVID-19 was a turning point. Witnessing the increasing needs of her community, Evangeline decided it was time to act. The Eva Foundation was born out of a desire to provide targeted support during these trying times. Her faith and unwavering determination quickly propelled the foundation to become a source of hope and resilience.
The Mission of the Eva Foundation
The Eva Foundation is dedicated to leaving a lasting legacy by improving the lives of people and communities. Under Evangeline’s leadership, the foundation has launched a variety of projects focused on education, healthcare, and community development. Her engineering background ensures meticulous planning and execution, while her marketing skills amplify the foundation’s message, reaching those in need and potential supporters alike.
Key Programs and Initiatives
- Hampers of Love: Non-perishable food items, care packages, and toiletries.
- Secret Santa: Toys for kids at Christmas time.
- Pre-Loved Items: Clothing, pre-loved items.
- Equip to Excel: School supplies for all levels – pre-school, primary, secondary, and tertiary.
- Sustainable Initiatives: Educational programs, community clean-up, and more.
Looking Ahead
Evangeline’s vision for the future is one of growth and expanded impact. She is optimistic about the foundation’s potential to reach more children and communities. “Our goal is to continue leveraging our skills and experiences to make a tangible difference,” she says.
Achievements and Ongoing Initiatives of the Eva Foundation
2020:
- Distributed Activity Packs to 1st and 2nd Year Students across six schools in South Trinidad, reaching a total of 60 children.
2021:
- Food drive initiative brought hope and sustenance to three families within one month.
- Wrapped and donated over 30 toys to the San Fernando General Hospital Paediatric Ward for Christmas, bringing joy to the children.
2022:
- Thirty-one primary school graduates received comprehensive stationery packages to support their transition to secondary school.
- A family in need received a package containing essential stationery items and basic household necessities.
- Young men at the Living Water Community – Marian House were supplied with much-needed stationery supplies.
- Donated three bags of clothing to the young men at Living Water Community – Marian House.
- Sixty-five comfort kits were provided to the JBF Paediatric Specialty Ward.
- Thirty-three toys were wrapped and donated to the JBF Paediatric Specialty Ward for Christmas, and an additional twelve toys were given to Haven of Hope.
2023:
- Partnered with Team XD Community for a clean-up initiative at Rio Seco, promoting environmental responsibility.
- Built a small wooden 12×12 room for someone in need, providing them with a safe space.
- Through the Hampers of Love initiative, donated 25 hampers to the JBF Paediatric Specialty Ward.
Secret Santa Initiative brought Christmas cheer to 100 kids with special needs by gifting them toys.
- Distributed pre-loved items, including baby clothing and supplies to a single mom of one, essential baby items to a young family with two babies, and a microwave to a university student who is also working full-time.
2024:
- Ongoing Equip to Excel school supplies drive aims to provide 200 students across Trinidad and Tobago with essential school supplies, empowering them to succeed in their education.
- Celebrated Mother’s Day and Nurses Week by delivering flowers to the women of the Living Water Community MAXIMILLIAN KOLBE Cancer Hospice, and also distributed small tokens to the men there.
How to Get Involved
Donate: Financial contributions and goods are always welcome.
Volunteer: Join us in our events and initiatives.
Partner: Businesses can partner with us for sponsorships and joint initiatives.
Spread the Word: Share our mission on social media and within your networks.
Volunteer: Join us in our events and initiatives.
Partner: Businesses can partner with us for sponsorships and joint initiatives.
Spread the Word: Share our mission on social media and within your networks.
Contact Information
Website: www.evafoundation.org
Email: [email protected]
Social Media: Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and LinkedIn at @theevafoundation
Direct Contact: Connect with our Founder, Evangeline, at 319-9244 or via email at [email protected]
Email: [email protected]
Social Media: Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and LinkedIn at @theevafoundation
Direct Contact: Connect with our Founder, Evangeline, at 319-9244 or via email at [email protected]
We encourage you to follow us, share her work, and join her in her mission to make a positive impact in our community. Through the Eva Foundation, Evangeline Pardasie has harnessed her personal experiences and professional skills to create a lasting impact. Her story serves as a reminder of the extraordinary difference one person can make.
