Care Packages

     We are SO thankful for care packages sent to us from our friends back home!  Below is a list of items that would be especially helpful to receive while we are overseas.  Since we returned to Chad in May 2010, the list of goods available in the corner stores has increased significantly, so the list below is shorter than before.
     Please keep in mind this is only a wish list, not a necessity list.  These are just suggestions of things we might enjoy every now and then.
     When sending a care package to our Chad address (BP 39, Abéché, CHAD Africa), check with the Post Office to be sure that all the items you wish to send us  can be sent legally by post.  Also, make sure that your package is clearly marked "Air Mail / Par Avion".  Packages should be well-taped, preferably with fiber tape, especially the corners which often get torn.
     The best way to send us a package is to send us a few of the smaller items listed below in a manila envelope!  Oftentimes, these things will arrive quickly and not have to pass through customs.
     For filler, do not use styrofoam peanuts or paper; use grocery and Wal-Mart plastic bags.  I cannot go into detail here why this is an especially helpful idea, but if you write me, I will explain why.
     Label packages in general terms, such as "educational materials",  "printed matter", and so on.  Avoid using words such as "toys" or "clothes".  If possible, your items should be sent without the case in a strong manila-type envelope.  This way, they will be treated as a letter rather than as a parcel.  Only send a package by registered mail when absolutely necessary, as this may delay its arrival.
     To save money on international postage: From the US, apparently there are priority mail boxes which do not take weight into consideration.  Please check with your local post office for more details.
     Also, if you send us an e-mail, we can let you know if there is anyone traveling from your home country or nearby who would be willing to transport your care package to Chad for us.  If there is, we will send you their address, and give further instructions as to how to address your package.

Food, Flavors and Seasonings  

  • Bacon Salt (all flavors)
  • Cake/brownie/cookie/muffin mixes- especially chocolate
  • Cayenne powder
  • Chili powder
  • Chocolate chips, or other baking chips
  • Fruit Snacks/Gummi Bears
  • Goldfish crackers
  • Ground coriander
  • Sugarless gum
  • Hershey's Chocolate (no nuts)
  • Hershey's cocoa
  • Hot chocolate packets 
  • Jell-O no-bake cheesecake mix or equivalent 
  • Kool-Aid, unsweetened (Sugar is readily available in Chad) 
  • Lawry's Garlic Spread
  • Lemon pepper
  • Life Savers
  • Liquid Smoke
  • Luzianne tea
  • M&Ms
  • Marjoram
  • Noodle soup mix
  • Onion powder
  • Onion soup mix
  • Onion salt
  • White or gourmet popcorn
  • Popcorn flavorings (like sour cream and onion, bacon, cheddar, ranch, etc.)
  • Powdered cheese mix (like in Mac & Cheese - we can easily get the macaroni here). Buy a bunch of Mac and Cheese boxes, keep the noodles, and send us the packs!
  • Powdered seasoning mixes (for adding to meat, rice, pasta or potato)
  • Red Rose tea
  • Rennett (for cheese making)
  • Rice and sauce mixes (Lipton and Rice-a-Roni style)
  • Rosemary
  • Stuffing mix
  • Tarragon
  • Teddy Grahams
  • Tomato soup mix
  • Turmeric

Goodies are always welcome!

Other Items

  • Acetometaphin or Ibuprophen
  • Antacids, especially those fruit flavored Tums things
  • Books that inspired you in your relationship with God
  • Durable fly swatters
  • Glad bags, all types   
  • Ponytail holders and other hair accessories
  • Scenery Wall Calendars for the coming year
  • Sermon CDs or tapes