Nurture Project International - Greece

July 2016 Update: I have completed my humanitarian trip to Greece.  Take a look at my blog posts to hear how it went. My trip was fully funded by friends who believe in me and my ability to make a difference.  I was pleased to raise even more money than I needed.  I was able to split the remaining funds between 4 volunteers fundraising to work at the same camp as myself with Nurture Project International.
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I have raised enough money to cover the cost of airtravel and the tickets are purchased.  I will be in Greece June 2-16.  However, I still need to raise $1000 to cover other expenses.  Please make a donation of any amount.  If you own a business, I am happy to link your website below.
Website Here
Send Money via PayPal to me@biancawooden.com
or Mail a check: 136 Siowan Ave, Ocean Springs, MS 39564

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Thank you to these Contributors!

Brooke Bauer, NPI Director:"As I drove away from EKO camp today I wept.
I sobbed for the lack of humanity. The lack of dignity offered.
I sobbed for the compassion, the kindness, the dedication of the helpers. Helpers. Helpers were everywhere. Refugees helping refugees and helping volunteers. Volunteers working dawn until dusk.
I wept for the babies that didn't look like they would make it. So many thin babies. And I wept for the mothers who cried while holding my hand. They were so worried about their babies who were ill.
I wept for the ones who struggle to breastfeed at night because it is so cold and they are on a hard ground. There are no blankets. There is no grass. Some sleep on the pavement, others on pallets, some on the dirt.
I cried because of the trauma. The injustice. The desperation.
There is little food. Even less clean water. No place to wash hands. Everyone has scabies. Their poor skin. Infectious disease outbreaks are only days away if they are not already here.
I wept for our project there. I cried because I wish it didn't have to exist. I wish so, so much it didn't exist. And I sobbed for the team that I was leaving behind. The people at the front lines.
I sobbed because in that camp, and in other camps, families live without protection. Without basic rights, without support, and care.
I will never look at the world the same again. I won't. There is no place for this type of indifference. None. No place. None at all."

Learn More

Nurture Project International - Website

Nurture Project International - facebook

Can I donate things for you to take to Greece?

Many people have asked if they can donate formula, diapers, baby carriers, etc for me to take to Greece.  The short answer is no.  ANd there are several reasons.  First, keep in mind that Greee is a European country and a tourist destination.  They have stores and an economy that can provide all the necessities.  However, refugees do not have money to purchase these things.  So, more than any things, money is needed.  Also, all of the work with refugees is done in tents - so storage is extremely limited.  Regarding formula, many organizations have been distributing formula to mothers and this a s very serious problem.  You see, when a mother gets free formula, she uses it and her milk supply decreases.  She will often water it down so that it lasts longer.  And, she often does not have a clean water supply to mix the formula or a way to clean the bottle. And, the supply of formula is limited.  So, a mother have some formula one day, but not the next.  Organizations and experts that focus on infant nutrition during disasters know that the best option is pre-mixed, sterile formula fed using a cup along with support of trained lactation counselors who can help the mother produce her own milk for her baby. It is heartbreaking to hear the storied of mothers given powdered formula who's baby has horrible diarrhea and is losing weight very quickly.  She then has no more formula and her breast milk has diminished because of using formula  and her baby is to weak to nurse.  The best help for women with infants is to help them breastfeed successfully.