Here are some of the things I am bringing to Africa to distribute to children and their families. Once I deflate the soccer balls and start packing I will see how much room I have for additional things. I will also be bringing items for specific children from new child sponsors. We have been given some guidance on what kinds of things are needed or appreciated including school supplies and soccer balls (soccer balls are supposed to be like gold there). It’s hard to know exactly what to bring and what is most needed but apparently we will have the opportunity to buy things in local stores and bring much needed items (including food) to families in the villages we will be visiting. I’m sure there will be a lot of learning in this regard for the next time I do this.
It has actually been an emotional experience buying these simple things over the past few months knowing how much it will be appreciated over there and how common and inexpensive these items are here. I picked up a lot of this stuff at various dollar stores or Walmart, the soccer balls were the most expensive at between $5 and $8 each, the kids clothing items including the shoes/sandals were end of season clearance items for $2 to $3.
Things for kids in Africa
Posted by Christy on October 27, 2011 at 12:15 am
This pile looks familiar.
Sounds like you got some awesome deals!
Clothes to barter with in Zambia were women’s clothes- sorry if I made that unclear in my email. Many artisans are women (with babies in tow) and wanted to trade clothes for things…maybe they’ll trade for kids clothes too! But not to worry- if nothing else, the children’s clothes/flip-flops will be TREMENDOUSLY appreciated by the sponsored kids!
Posted by Pat Gilligan on October 27, 2011 at 12:44 am
That is great to hear Christy! I was actually referencing our discussion about Zambia – I’m sure you did make it clear, I would be much happier if they were able to put them to use themselves. Thanks for commenting,