Virginia Baptists’ Response to Haiti

It is with heavy hearts that we continue to witness the devastation and destruction in the country of Haiti. After such a tragedy, many of us are overcome with a strong desire to help in any way possible. To this point, prayer and financial donations have been the most necessary and beneficial mode of assistance. Those continue to be needed and valuable.

In addition, we now have details regarding two hands-on ministry opportunities that will significantly benefit the people of Haiti. Each of these opportunities are a tangible way for you and your congregation to engage locally in a ministry that will have a global impact.

Below are details regarding each of these opportunities:

Stop Hunger Now
Virginia Baptists will join with Richmond-area Methodists to package 142,000 meals on Friday, February 5 and Saturday, February 6 through Stop Hunger Now (SHN).  SHN is the organization that Virginia Baptists have partnered with on many occasions, including our recent annual meeting in November.   They have a reliable partner on the ground in Haiti and have sent over 6 million meals there over the past several years.

Virginia Baptists have been asked to provide 40 – 50 volunteers for each of the packaging time periods.  All volunteers must register in advance for a scheduled time period.  You may do so by emailing Jeannette Hildebrand or by calling 800.255.2428, ext. 7260. 
Get Stop Hunger Now event details.

We will attempt to coordinate similar events in other regions of the state once funds become available. 

Medical Supplies Collection
Virginia Baptists are now collecting medical supplies that will be transported to Haiti and used by volunteers currently on the field and by those who may go in the near future.  Please take the next few weeks to collect these items and then deliver them to the Virginia Baptist Mission Board during the week of February 15 - 19.  We plan to load a truck with all of the supplies on Saturday, February 20 and send it to our partners for distribution.  Download a list of approved items and delivery instructions.

Other Resources

• Religious Herald is monitoring coverage of the Virginia Baptist response in Haiti. Watch the video of Dean Miller, Virginia Missions Coordinator, discussing how to provide help after the earthquake.
  
  
• Daily updates can be found online. Please monitor this link for information regarding opportunities for local, hands-on ministry opportunities.
  
  
• Downloadable worship materials are also available on the same link (provided courtesy of Warrenton Baptist Church)  for use in your church's services.