Bob Trotta, Charity Founder

The Books4Kids Jamaica program was founded in 2007 by international developer the late Bob Trotta. Originally started as The Palmyra Foundation, the charity’s moniker has since evolved into Books4Kids Jamaica.

Trotta’s philanthropic contribution enabled the distribution of more than 290,000 books, pencils and crayons to more than 93,000 children at 150+ Jamaica schools. The charity’s main sponsor and benefactor, Mr. Trotta personally carried all operational and administrative costs of the program, donating more than US$1m to the charity’s efforts. The initiative has been spearheaded by his wife Ragni, who has picked up the mantle as the program’s benefactor.

Trotta had a unique ability to connect with children and loved visiting schools to distribute books together with his wife Ragni. He often called on role models to help hand out books and was often seen handing out books together with celebrities like former Prime Minister P.J. Patterson, Heavy Weight World Champion Lennox Lewis and many Jamaican politician and business people.

A post-graduate of the University of North Carolina, Trotta was a firm believer in Early Childhood Education. He leaves a legacy of love for Jamaica’s youngest children.

“There is nothing more important you can do for any country than to help to educate its youth.”

Bob Trotta, Charity Founder