Frequently Asked Questions
HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?
Haiti — The cost of joining us on our medical mission is your airfare, baggage fees, tourism fee, and any spending money you would like to use for souvenirs / extra snacks etc. Airfare to the Port-au-Prince (PAP) airport is highly variable; prices can range from $300 to $1200 round trip. In the past we have had success with both JetBlue and American Airlines traveling non-stop from Ft. Lauderdale (FLL) to PAP for under $450 with a little bit of searching/ advanced planning (prices will vary out of state). Baggage fees vary between airlines; however we highly encourage 1 carry on bag, please read below to see what you really NEED to bring and what can be left at home. Currently the tourism fee for entering the country of Haiti is $10 USD, this is to be paid cash at the airport during customs. Spending money: we recommend bringing no more than $100 USD cash for souvenirs etc., it is also recommended that you bring small bills $1, $5, $10 to avoid difficulty in currency exchange.
HOW SHOULD I BOOK MY TICKET?
At this time we require volunteers to book their airline tickets individually; please let us know which trip you are interested in and we can provide you with the most accurate information possible. While arriving and departing on the same flight as a group is preferable; we understand that everyone’s finances are different and that choosing a different flight may make the difference of being able to join us, arrangements to arrive/depart either earlier or later on the same dates are doable.
WHAT WILL A TYPICAL MISSION DAY LOOK LIKE?
Every mission trip is different! Depending on the length of the trip we will have a certain amount of clinic days and free days. Clinic days typically start with waking up (around 7:00am), eating breakfast, and traveling to the clinic [travel is typically 30min - 1 hour depending on accommodations / clinic location]. Once we arrive at the clinic location we try to set everything up as quickly as possible so that we can start helping people. Clinics run anywhere from 5-9 hours depending on the amount of people in need and the amount of resources that we have available. On a typical clinic day we help around 125 people; but we have seen over 300 individuals in one day! Lunch and drinks will be provided during the clinic; however you will be busy so we may take turns eating in order to keep the clinic running. The clinics may seem overwhelming at times; but the people you are helping genuinely appreciate your help! If you need to take a break, walk outside, talk to the people you are helping, take pictures, etc… you can! Our clinics are full of hands-on-experience; the hours are long and the working conditions are very different from what most would expect, however all of our past volunteers agree that the joy that comes from helping those who truly need it make it an amazing experience.
Tips for clinic days from past volunteers:
Bring an open mind! Many of the people that you meet and help have limited access to education/ medical assistance. What may seem like common sense to one is a lesson that may have never been taught to another. And bring snacks and a flashlight sometimes you get to stay and help even longer than planned!” -Kayla [2015, 2016]
Free days are always different because we want to explore new experiences with each group! Depending on the length of the trip we have had half-free days after we finish up clinics, full free days, or a combination of both. In the past we have explored different beaches, historical landmarks, and waterfalls on free days; if you have a suggestion let us know and we can see if it can happen.
DO I HAVE TO BE A MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL TO JOIN?
No, while certain roles in the clinic require medical training we also have roles in the clinic that do not need medical experience. You do need to have a desire to help! Past medical volunteers have been paramedics, nursing students, LPNs, and RNs. We have also had non-medical volunteers assist with setting up and organization during the clinic.
“At first it can seem overwhelming, especially with not having a medical background, but the experienced volunteers are very helpful. By the end of your first day you will feel like you have been doing this your whole life!” -Michael [2016]
DO I NEED A VALID U.S. PASSPORT?
Yes. If you don't already have a current U.S. passport, you may obtain one by picking up the forms at certain branches of the U.S. Post Office or go online to http://travel.state.gov/passport
Passports typically take six weeks to process.
Photocopy all important documents and keep them in a hidden place separate from the originals. Leave another copy at home with someone you can easily get in contact with while you are abroad.
WHERE WILL WE STAY?
Lodging arrangements vary every trip based on the amount of participants. In the past we have utilized hotels as well as local homes of pastors and family members who have offered to help. Rooms are typically shared and separated by gender in order to respect the culture and values of those who are accommodating our group. It is important to recognize that Haiti is a third world country; many of the amenities that are available in the US are not available in Haiti. There will be no air conditioning, electrical fans may or may not be available, electricity may be limited or unavailable, running water may be unavailable, if running water is available it may not be safe for consumption, showers have one temperature (usually cold) and one pressure. Although the accommodations may be very different than what most are used to, most volunteers agree that the experience is humbling and didn’t mind the feeling of being off the grid for a short time.
WHERE/ WHAT WILL WE EAT?
Meals include breakfast, lunch and dinner at either the hotel, home that we are staying at, or at a restaurant nearby.
Breakfast examples: scrambled eggs, juice [always different fruit/vegetable combos], bread, peanut butter, fruit jam, fresh fruits [mangoes, bananas, apricot, etc.] coffee and even spaghetti.
Lunch Examples: Rice and beans with fish, goat, or chicken and plantains
Dinner Examples: Very similar to lunch but usually with more meat choices like conch, pork (griot), a variety of local vegetables.
Special Diets: If you require any special food/diet requirements, it is suggested that you bring it with you from the states. Most people will bring snacks, granola bars, and even cereal as well in case the food option for the day is not preferred.
WHAT KIND OF TRANSPORTATION IS PROVIDED?
Depending on the size of the trip and the amount of volunteers we will either use private vehicles or rent a van. All transportation in Haiti is provided by Blessing Wave.
HOW MUCH SHOULD I PACK?
We strongly suggest packing one carry-on bag plus one small tote bag/back pack to avoid any delays at the airports. Please make sure to follow the zip lock bag rules for liquids. Please see our suggested packing list.
WHAT KIND OF CLOTHING SHOULD I BRING?
Since most of the country has a tropical climate, it’s advisable to wear lightweight shirts and pants and closed-toe shoes during the day. Please see our suggested packing list.
WHAT ABOUT MY SAFETY?
Our first priority will always be your well being. Haiti is a third world country and security and emergency management is very different from the the US. The US department of State recommends obtaining private evacuation insurance in case of emergency. This insurance can generally be purchased with your airline ticket for less than $40 per person. For more information visit: https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/haiti-travel-warning.html
WHAT ABOUT PHYSICALS, PRESCRIPTIONS AND VACCINATIONS?
While most of our volunteers do not take any medications/vaccinations other than standard US immunizations it is best to consult with your doctor is you have any specific concerns. You can also visit the website for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention www.cdc.gov to get advice on what (if any) vaccinations are needed while abroad.
If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bring along an extra pair. If you have prescription medication, make sure you bring enough to last during your time abroad. Be sure to label your containers correctly so that they won't be mistaken for illegal drugs.
IMPORTANT NOTICE – ZIKA VIRUS PRECAUTION
You may be aware of the mosquito-borne Zika virus that has affected several countries in the Caribbean.
Here is what you should know:
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is urging women who are pregnant, and those who may become pregnant, to postpone travel to those countries.
• For other travelers, there is little risk. Food For The Poor takes every precaution to ensure safe travel for our mission participants, including secure hotel rooms and food and water sources. In light of this outbreak, we urge you to make adequate preparations. Please plan to dress in long sleeves and long pants each day, and bring DEET-based bug repellents for day and night. Our goal is to meet your every need, but additional precautions are advised at this time.
• The most common symptoms of Zika virus are fever, rash, joint pain and red eyes, and can last from a few days to about a week. But 80 percent of infected people have no symptoms. Treatment of Zika virus involves getting plenty of rest, drinking fluids to prevent dehydration, and taking acetaminophen or paracetamol to relieve fever and pain. Aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen and naproxen should not be taken.
• To read more about the Zika virus, visit http://www.cdc.gov/zika/index.html
IS INSURANCE PROVIDED?
You are responsible for your own health and accident insurance while traveling overseas. In the past many of our volunteers have purchased separate coverage from their airline service at the time of their flight purchase; this optional covers emergency evacuation for medical, natural disasters and civil unrest, the cost is generally less than $40.
HOW MUCH MONEY SHOULD I BRING?
We suggest bringing no more than $100 USD in small denominations, for any souvenirs or small purchases. If you pay in cash, you will receive change in the local currency.
Haiti — The cost of joining us on our medical mission is your airfare, baggage fees, tourism fee, and any spending money you would like to use for souvenirs / extra snacks etc. Airfare to the Port-au-Prince (PAP) airport is highly variable; prices can range from $300 to $1200 round trip. In the past we have had success with both JetBlue and American Airlines traveling non-stop from Ft. Lauderdale (FLL) to PAP for under $450 with a little bit of searching/ advanced planning (prices will vary out of state). Baggage fees vary between airlines; however we highly encourage 1 carry on bag, please read below to see what you really NEED to bring and what can be left at home. Currently the tourism fee for entering the country of Haiti is $10 USD, this is to be paid cash at the airport during customs. Spending money: we recommend bringing no more than $100 USD cash for souvenirs etc., it is also recommended that you bring small bills $1, $5, $10 to avoid difficulty in currency exchange.
HOW SHOULD I BOOK MY TICKET?
At this time we require volunteers to book their airline tickets individually; please let us know which trip you are interested in and we can provide you with the most accurate information possible. While arriving and departing on the same flight as a group is preferable; we understand that everyone’s finances are different and that choosing a different flight may make the difference of being able to join us, arrangements to arrive/depart either earlier or later on the same dates are doable.
WHAT WILL A TYPICAL MISSION DAY LOOK LIKE?
Every mission trip is different! Depending on the length of the trip we will have a certain amount of clinic days and free days. Clinic days typically start with waking up (around 7:00am), eating breakfast, and traveling to the clinic [travel is typically 30min - 1 hour depending on accommodations / clinic location]. Once we arrive at the clinic location we try to set everything up as quickly as possible so that we can start helping people. Clinics run anywhere from 5-9 hours depending on the amount of people in need and the amount of resources that we have available. On a typical clinic day we help around 125 people; but we have seen over 300 individuals in one day! Lunch and drinks will be provided during the clinic; however you will be busy so we may take turns eating in order to keep the clinic running. The clinics may seem overwhelming at times; but the people you are helping genuinely appreciate your help! If you need to take a break, walk outside, talk to the people you are helping, take pictures, etc… you can! Our clinics are full of hands-on-experience; the hours are long and the working conditions are very different from what most would expect, however all of our past volunteers agree that the joy that comes from helping those who truly need it make it an amazing experience.
Tips for clinic days from past volunteers:
Bring an open mind! Many of the people that you meet and help have limited access to education/ medical assistance. What may seem like common sense to one is a lesson that may have never been taught to another. And bring snacks and a flashlight sometimes you get to stay and help even longer than planned!” -Kayla [2015, 2016]
Free days are always different because we want to explore new experiences with each group! Depending on the length of the trip we have had half-free days after we finish up clinics, full free days, or a combination of both. In the past we have explored different beaches, historical landmarks, and waterfalls on free days; if you have a suggestion let us know and we can see if it can happen.
DO I HAVE TO BE A MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL TO JOIN?
No, while certain roles in the clinic require medical training we also have roles in the clinic that do not need medical experience. You do need to have a desire to help! Past medical volunteers have been paramedics, nursing students, LPNs, and RNs. We have also had non-medical volunteers assist with setting up and organization during the clinic.
“At first it can seem overwhelming, especially with not having a medical background, but the experienced volunteers are very helpful. By the end of your first day you will feel like you have been doing this your whole life!” -Michael [2016]
DO I NEED A VALID U.S. PASSPORT?
Yes. If you don't already have a current U.S. passport, you may obtain one by picking up the forms at certain branches of the U.S. Post Office or go online to http://travel.state.gov/passport
Passports typically take six weeks to process.
Photocopy all important documents and keep them in a hidden place separate from the originals. Leave another copy at home with someone you can easily get in contact with while you are abroad.
WHERE WILL WE STAY?
Lodging arrangements vary every trip based on the amount of participants. In the past we have utilized hotels as well as local homes of pastors and family members who have offered to help. Rooms are typically shared and separated by gender in order to respect the culture and values of those who are accommodating our group. It is important to recognize that Haiti is a third world country; many of the amenities that are available in the US are not available in Haiti. There will be no air conditioning, electrical fans may or may not be available, electricity may be limited or unavailable, running water may be unavailable, if running water is available it may not be safe for consumption, showers have one temperature (usually cold) and one pressure. Although the accommodations may be very different than what most are used to, most volunteers agree that the experience is humbling and didn’t mind the feeling of being off the grid for a short time.
WHERE/ WHAT WILL WE EAT?
Meals include breakfast, lunch and dinner at either the hotel, home that we are staying at, or at a restaurant nearby.
Breakfast examples: scrambled eggs, juice [always different fruit/vegetable combos], bread, peanut butter, fruit jam, fresh fruits [mangoes, bananas, apricot, etc.] coffee and even spaghetti.
Lunch Examples: Rice and beans with fish, goat, or chicken and plantains
Dinner Examples: Very similar to lunch but usually with more meat choices like conch, pork (griot), a variety of local vegetables.
Special Diets: If you require any special food/diet requirements, it is suggested that you bring it with you from the states. Most people will bring snacks, granola bars, and even cereal as well in case the food option for the day is not preferred.
WHAT KIND OF TRANSPORTATION IS PROVIDED?
Depending on the size of the trip and the amount of volunteers we will either use private vehicles or rent a van. All transportation in Haiti is provided by Blessing Wave.
HOW MUCH SHOULD I PACK?
We strongly suggest packing one carry-on bag plus one small tote bag/back pack to avoid any delays at the airports. Please make sure to follow the zip lock bag rules for liquids. Please see our suggested packing list.
WHAT KIND OF CLOTHING SHOULD I BRING?
Since most of the country has a tropical climate, it’s advisable to wear lightweight shirts and pants and closed-toe shoes during the day. Please see our suggested packing list.
WHAT ABOUT MY SAFETY?
Our first priority will always be your well being. Haiti is a third world country and security and emergency management is very different from the the US. The US department of State recommends obtaining private evacuation insurance in case of emergency. This insurance can generally be purchased with your airline ticket for less than $40 per person. For more information visit: https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/haiti-travel-warning.html
WHAT ABOUT PHYSICALS, PRESCRIPTIONS AND VACCINATIONS?
While most of our volunteers do not take any medications/vaccinations other than standard US immunizations it is best to consult with your doctor is you have any specific concerns. You can also visit the website for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention www.cdc.gov to get advice on what (if any) vaccinations are needed while abroad.
If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bring along an extra pair. If you have prescription medication, make sure you bring enough to last during your time abroad. Be sure to label your containers correctly so that they won't be mistaken for illegal drugs.
IMPORTANT NOTICE – ZIKA VIRUS PRECAUTION
You may be aware of the mosquito-borne Zika virus that has affected several countries in the Caribbean.
Here is what you should know:
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is urging women who are pregnant, and those who may become pregnant, to postpone travel to those countries.
• For other travelers, there is little risk. Food For The Poor takes every precaution to ensure safe travel for our mission participants, including secure hotel rooms and food and water sources. In light of this outbreak, we urge you to make adequate preparations. Please plan to dress in long sleeves and long pants each day, and bring DEET-based bug repellents for day and night. Our goal is to meet your every need, but additional precautions are advised at this time.
• The most common symptoms of Zika virus are fever, rash, joint pain and red eyes, and can last from a few days to about a week. But 80 percent of infected people have no symptoms. Treatment of Zika virus involves getting plenty of rest, drinking fluids to prevent dehydration, and taking acetaminophen or paracetamol to relieve fever and pain. Aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen and naproxen should not be taken.
• To read more about the Zika virus, visit http://www.cdc.gov/zika/index.html
IS INSURANCE PROVIDED?
You are responsible for your own health and accident insurance while traveling overseas. In the past many of our volunteers have purchased separate coverage from their airline service at the time of their flight purchase; this optional covers emergency evacuation for medical, natural disasters and civil unrest, the cost is generally less than $40.
HOW MUCH MONEY SHOULD I BRING?
We suggest bringing no more than $100 USD in small denominations, for any souvenirs or small purchases. If you pay in cash, you will receive change in the local currency.