Caregiver Kits

When I was in Africa, I met a group of incredibly special people…they are called Caregivers.  The Caregivers are volunteers.  They go into their communities and love on the people who are ill because of HIV/AIDS.

In the regions we visited, so many people were sick with HIV/AIDS.  This horrific disease is affecting people of all ages, without prejudice, and leaves most of them to suffer and die alone.  That is where the Caregivers come in.  They visit the sick, talk to them, rub ointment on their open sores and most importantly, love them!

World Vision has recognized and helped mobilize the Caregivers.  They are training and educating the Caregivers while providing them with the necessary supplies and tools to help those who are suffering.  One key resource they help provide are Caregiver Kits.

Caregiver Kits are purchased through donations and assembled by volunteers here in the US.  In fact, most are provided by individuals in community groups, churches and through corporate team-building programs.  The Caregiver Kits contain latex gloves, petroleum jelly, soap, washcloths, anti-fungal cream, flashlights w/ batteries, pain relievers, water purification tablets and more…all things that the Caregivers use when caring for those affected by AIDS.

Recently, I had the opportunity to help assemble 300 Caregiver Kits with a group of World Vision Artists.  You pack 1 case and 4 refill kits…this gives a Caregiver the supplies they need for one year.  Before we closed up a case or refill kit we were able to add a handwritten note of encouragement to the Caregiver.  It was incredible!

The Caregivers are real-life Hero’s.  They selflessly serve people who are all but forgotten.  Here are a couple links where you can find out more about Caregiver Kits from World Vision and how you can get involved:

Church & Community Groups
Corporate & Team-Building Groups

Have you heard of the Caregivers before?
Would your company or group be interested in helping donate & assemble Caregiver Kits?