$50 a gallon?

Gas prices are high, but not that high. A gallon of milk? Even a gallon from Whole Foods isn't that much. So what in the world am I talking about? A gallon of paint. But not here in the states, where you can go to Home Depot and grab one for about $10-15. But that's how much a gallon of paint costs in the Bahamas. But who cares about that? I do.

As many of you know, for each summer since 2005, I’ve been blessed to lead a group of Senior High students to the island on our church’s mission trip where we will help the residents continue to rebuild their homes and lives from past hurricanes. We will do light construction work, like roofing, drywalling, and painting, create village gardens, build fish and lobster traps, and play with the children. But most importantly, we will allow God to work through us and be His hands and feet to support and encourage the local Christians who are desperately seeking help.

This trip requires a hefty financial commitment. The cost this year is $1600 per person, but I am fortunate enough to be able to afford it. Here’s how we break it down: Airfare and bus - $650, lodging and food - $700, supplies $250. Each year, we send down money to pay for building materials and other expenses from the job site. That’s a lot of money and we should be able to get a lot accomplished, but it’s not that easy. You see, there is NOTHING that is produced naturally on the island. Everything must be imported. And because everything is imported, there are HUGE taxes and tariffs placed on these goods. So who pays for it? The consumer. The cost of these supplies is ridiculous compared to The Home Depot or Lowes, so the money goes quick. Now we’re able to get what we need and accomplish our goals during the week, but once we leave, our friends with Karazim Ministries, Raoul and Karen Armbrister, are left with very little to support those in need.

So instead of writing letters, asking for people to sponsor me and my finances, I’m asking that people make donations for specific items. If you are feeling called to do this, and want to contribute, take a look at the list of items and make a check out for the amount of a something in particular. All money that that I raise this year will be given to Karazim ministries so they can use it to help more people, even after we are gone.

Gallon of paint - $50.00 per gallon
Box of nails - $14.00 per box
Bag of dirt - $3.25 - $4.45 per bag
Vegetable seeds - $5.00 per pack
Paint for a house - $300.00 per house
Raised Garden bed for planting - $200.00 per bed
Roofing supplies - Wood $150.00, Felt $35.00 roll, Roofing cement 65.00
Fish traps - $75.00 each

And if you don’t feel called to give money or are having a rough time right now, that’s ok. Just remember to keep us and the people of the Bahamas in your prayers.