Yesterdays blog was about making room to bring home the travel treasures you find on your journey... today I want to suggest starting at the beginning and packing with a purpose. I have been blessed to have many friends in various parts of the world and I can't remember the last time I traveled where I did not pack a significant amount of things to deliver to them. On one visit to a Middle East country I carried in a huge stereo system, curriculum books, candy, snacks and all sorts of items. On a trip to Asia my traveling companions and I brought medical supplies (photo above) and on my most recent journey the request from a friend was for packets of Taco Bell mild sauce and Parmesan cheese.
So what can you bring?
* If you are connected to a church, start by asking if they support any individuals or organizations in the area you are planning to travel to. You can make direct contact with these groups and ask them if they have any needs or 'wish for' items. Note: when we took medical supplies to Asia, we asked to speak to a manager at the Delta check-in counter. We explained that we were taking humanitarian aid and they waived the 2nd piece of luggage fee we expected to pay. Also, if you are traveling with a group member with high status on an airline they are often allowed to take additional free baggage for up to 9 individuals traveling on their booking.
* Connect with "Pack For A Purpose". This website helps charities around the globe. It all adds up! They estimate that if 500 individuals each pack 5 lbs, they can provide 1.25 tons of supplies to community-based projects around the world! You can find more information at: http://www.packforapurpose.org/
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