PACKING
Shopping is best done at home, so please come prepared. Be prepared for any clothing you wear on the work site to get dirty or even ruined. Please note that we provide a short-sleeved work shirt every day for each volunteer. Proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) is a requirement for volunteers and is provided by All Hands and Hearts. However, if you have a favorite pair of work gloves, safety glasses, etc. you are welcome to bring them.
Please pack light - think about what is needed vs wanted; space on base is tight, and the environmental impact of items left behind after programs is a serious issue in communities affected by a disaster.
Please see the following lists for required, recommended, and good to have items.
REQUIRED
Work boots - mandatory when working on site. These should be sturdy construction work boots. Puncture-proof soles and steel-toe boots are recommended. Sturdy hiking boots are acceptable but sturdy work boots are preferred. Converse or running shoes are not allowed on the site.
Photo ID
REcommended
Work clothes: We provide short-sleeved work shirts, but you should bring pants/shorts to work in, as well as long-sleeved shirts in case you are working on a site that requires them.
Waterproof rain jacket, lightweight jacket, or sweater.
Reusable water bottle
Personal cash and ATM/credit card
Personal first aid kit, including any medication e.g. paracetamol, oral rehydration salts, antidiarrheals, etc. (We are unable to provide any medication.)
Personal items, toiletries (please consider bringing biodegradable soaps to protect the local environment), and towels.
Good to have
You may bring your own sheets/sleeping bag. We are currently providing cots or/ an air mattress, pillows, sheets and blankets, depending on availability.
Lots of socks, which tend to disappear in a communal living environment.
Normal clothes and beach wear for after work and days off.
Vitamins, electrolytes, food supplements, and comfort food
Shower shoes/flip flops.
Sleep/eye mask - We have plenty of earplugs!
Sun hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
Sharpie for marking your belongings.
All Hands and Hearts will provide all necessary PPE (Personal Protective Equipment).
Want to see what other volunteers bring with them to gain some packing inspiration? Check out this video!