General Purpose

The general purpose of HELP TEAMS is to go to trouble spots (e.g. flood, famine or war) and assist victims and refugees with the immediate needs of food, clean water, clothing, shelter and medical assistance.

They establish a lifeline between the needy and those who can help, whether it is donors, NGOs, the UN, etc.

Help Teams stay until the worst danger of loss of life is dealt with and then start laying the foundation for community development, e.g. a clinic, school, orphanage or church.

The next objective is to lay the groundwork for a community farm, where training, seed, equipment and skills are provided. If a big scale farm is not viable, an intensive gardening skill program is provided.

Lastly, Help Teams accomodates teams of volunteers that join them, for short term outreaches. This project serves as a bridge between Churches, Universities and the Business Sector, and those in need.

The Team

A typical HELP TEAM consists of seven members, working under a leader and co-leader:

* Two drivers who are trained mechanics, trained medics and are responsible for all handyman's work, loading of vehicles, setting up camp, etc.
* A doctor and a medical assistant.
* A cook who handles the team’s food plus run the feeding scheme.
* An agriculturist who assists generally and distribute seed, organize training and gardening projects. He also does feasibility studies for permanent agricultural projects.
* An interpreter who also assists generally.