SAIPAN — What started as a small student-led idea at Saipan International School grew into an islandwide relief effort reaching families across Saipan, Tinian, and Rota in the weeks after Super Typhoon Sinlaku, the school said.
The SIS Kindness Crew, supported by faculty members Doris Materne and Amie McRoberts, organized donation drives that collected clothing, toys, food, hygiene products, and other essential supplies. Hundreds of donated items were collected, and the school said it is deeply grateful to the SIS families whose generosity made the drive possible.
The elementary student initiative was inspired by older SIS students who had been volunteering throughout the community with organizations including Samaritan’s Purse, the American Red Cross, and local Rotary International events. The younger students wanted to find their own way to support the island community, the school said.
Community support quickly expanded, with donations pouring in from families, teachers, and residents. The first major delivery went to Karidat. Additional shipments were sent to Rota with support from Luta Cares and to Tinian by boat, extending relief efforts across multiple islands.
The Kindness Crew also partnered with TeKanahaunui Dance School and members of the Native Nenis for outreach events supporting children and families across the community. Nearly 400 meals, along with additional supplies, were distributed during those events.
Mili Saiki reflected on the drive in a statement. “Mother Nature showed us her immense power through Super Typhoon Sinlaku, but the people of Saipan have shown the strength to rise again and rebuild together through compassion, unity, and resilience,” Saiki said. “One of the greatest examples of this spirit has been our students through the SIS Kindness Crew, who organized this food, toy, and clothing drive to support our community during these difficult times. I am deeply proud of each and every one of them. Their kindness and generosity remind us that even after the darkest storms, hope and humanity continue to shine brightly.”
Materne said the experience has been one of the most meaningful of her career. “It has been one of the most meaningful experiences to watch students turn empathy into action and action into hope for our islands,” she said.
McRoberts said the days after the storm reaffirmed her sense of community. “In the days after the storm, I watched neighbors, students, families, and strangers come together to help one another without hesitation,” McRoberts said. “In that moment, I realized there is no better place to raise my children than here in our island community.”
The Kindness Crew’s efforts highlight how small acts of kindness can grow into powerful community action when people come together, the school said.
