Suggested Donations for Families

Housewarming Gift Ideas:

Many groups like to bring something to offer to the family for whom they are building. These gifts should be practical and not too expensive.

Although you can be generous please do not overdo it. This will avoid feelings of unfairness and disappointment within the community and may make it easier for you to cross the border. If you are stopped at the border items such as used clothing can create delays.

PLEASE NOTE THAT CARS STOPPED WITH CLOTHES HAVE BEEN DELAYED IN CUSTOMS AND HAD TO PAY IMPORT TAX, THIS DELAYS THE ENTIRE GROUP AND MAKES FOR A LATE START.

There is no electricity so please do not bring any electrical goods such as blenders, lamps etc.

The houses we build are basic but adequate. If you would like to make the house a bit more special you could choose to provide one or two of the following:

  • Window rods and curtains (can be hand made from any material). One 2 x 2, three 2 x 3. Simple rods are $1.50 at Home Depot.
  • A folding table and chairs such as sold at Home Depot or Costco are always appreciated.
  • Suggested Food Items to choose from:
  • Dried Pinto Beans
  • Bag of Rice
  • Cooking Oil
  • Canned tomatoes/tomato sauce, kernel corn(not creamed), chili con carne, tuna fish, a can opener
  • Packages of chicken flavored ramen noodles
  • Powdered drinks (Tang etc.) Powdered milk
  • Sugar
  • Nescafe classico coffee (a treat)
  • Water
  • Toiletries such as shampoo and bar soap are also good

Household Items:

  • Kitchen utensils
  • Towels
  • Cleaning supplies including laundry liquid
  • Blankets
  • Toilet paper
  • The Dollar store sells inexpensive sets of dishes and pots and pans.
  • Gently used second hand items are very welcome.

PLEASE NOTE THESE ARE ALL JUST SUGGESTIONS.

IF ANYONE WISHES TO CHOOSE TO BRING ANYTHING FROM THE LIST IT WILL BE MUCH APPRECIATED.

WE WOULD SIMPLY APPRECIATE FOOD IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO PROVIDE ANYTHING ELSE.