Real-Life Math
Your human rights organization is interested in helping the people
in Mexico's northern region. Because of flooding in the spring, these people
may be left without food sources over the winter.
They're far
from transportation routes and are isolated by distance and by the extreme
climate. You've got to get into the region with food supplies, heaters
and clothing before the winter freeze.
By talking to partner organizations,
you establish what supplies you will need for the humanitarian aid package.
You also need to be practical. How much will it cost to gather the supplies
and ship them into the region?
"Basic math skills are important for
these types of organizations," says Patricia Poirier. She is the communications
director for a human rights group. "We all have to run our budgets."
Deanna
Gallagher is an education coordinator for a human rights organization. She
says that problem-solving skills are important. "Just because you're
doing problem solving doesn't mean it's always in a crisis situation.
It can be very positive."
This is what you've decided you will
need:
150 heaters: $200 each
100 ovens: $400 each
95
clothing bundles: $120 each
400 food packages: $200 each
The
cost of transport into the region has been calculated into the prices for
these goods. How much will it cost to purchase these supplies for the people?