In Sub-Saharan Africa the HIV/AIDS crises is affecting large segments of the population. In 2007 over 1.6 million adults and children died because of AIDS. Currently, there are over 22.5 million adults and children who are living with the HIV virus in Sub-Saharan Africa. Because of the lack of health care, the limited access to anti-retroviral drugs and the continued increase in the spread of HIV, thousands of individuals die a very painful and horrible death each year. In addition to the HIV/AIDS crisis thousands in Sub-Saharan Africa die each year from sicknesses like cancer, tuberculosis, malaria and other life ending diseases – often the only care they will receive is at home.

The BGR In-Home Care Kit is a compilation of medical and hygiene supplies that Baptist Global Response is asking churches, groups, or individuals to provide to assist caregivers who are taking care of home-bound, terminally ill patients. Items in this kit will make the caregivers’ tasks much easier, but more importantly will ease the suffering of the ones affected by the illness. The BGR In-Home Care Kit consists of a 5-gallon, heavy duty bucket with a sealable lid. In Africa a bucket is a very valuable item that can be used to haul and store water, store food away from rodents and insects, and store other goods away from inclement weather and environmental challenges. Inside the bucket are items that will assist in keeping patients clean and dry and items to protect their mat or mattress from soiling. Medicated lip balm and lotion are included to help treat the skin problems that AIDS sufferers battle. Other items are included that will make life easier and less painful.

Alabama Baptists responded to this crisis by completing more than 500 buckets. Plans are currently underway to repeat this project in 2010.

If you have questions contact Ministry Assistant Mondene Coker, mcoker@alsbom.org or 1-800-264-1225, ext. 273.