How You Can Help
Through the generosity of many businesses, churches and individuals,
several 40 foot-long shipping containers have left from Abilene, Texas as well
as Portland, Oregon.
These containers have included everything from
bicycles, boots and Bibles to computers, children’s clothing and
communion supplies to seed, soccer balls and sewing machines as well as
first aid supplies. More relief supplies are always needed, and
containers will continue to be sent as funds are available. It costs
$13,000.00 to $17,000.00 to send one container, though we are always
searching for better shipping rates. The containers contain 40,000 to
50,000 pounds of donated goods. If you have goods to donate, it would be
appreciated. Needs include:
PERSONAL ITEMS- clothing for all ages/ blankets/ sleeping bags/soaps, shampoos, lotions/ washcloths, towels, sheets;
FEEDING CENTERS / GARDENS / PRODUCTION – vegetable
seeds for planting, garden hoses, hoes, rakes, shovels, pitchforks,
wheelbarrows / heavy duty plastic buckets, plates, bowls, cups / sewing
machines, fabrics, thread, scissors, zippers, buttons , and sewing notions;
MEDICAL NEEDS – antibiotic ointments, fever medicines, cold and flu medicines, rehydration salts (for malaria and cholera), cough medications, pain medications, bandages of all kinds, wheel chairs, walkers, crutches, canes. These supplies are given without charge in the most equitable manner possible to those in need, striving to help the greatest number possible.
It presently costs about $.023 to provide a meal to a needy orphan or widow. Volunteers prepare the meals and help in meeting needs. Numbers of churches make their facilities available to prepare food, teach lessons about a God who loves them, and let the children kick a soccer ball.
Your participation in this gracious work would be most appreciated. The generosity of a caring, giving community is humbling and encouraging. Our financial records are open for all to examine on request. Each center that receives support signs for the support they receive in the sight of witnesses that there might be full openness and accountability. In the United States Operation Starfish is overseen by a board of some six people from two congregations who control disbursements. Volunteers in Africa certify accurate and verifiable use of all funds and goods donated.
This site is new, but we hope to soon have further capabilities for your information, including photos and video of activities as well as future capability to contribute directly online. For the time being, tax deductible contributions (please specify) for garden program or feeding support or container costs may be sent to:
Operation Starfish Africa
c/o Hillcrest Church of Christ
650 East Amber
Abilene, TX 79601