The Latest from Cuba

It is interesting reading the commentary coming out of Cuba and what I hear from the United States is very similar in most aspects. 

·       It is essential we get the country opened again.

·       Prices of raw product going up.

·       The loss of supplies, service contracts, closing of restaurants and small business.

·       The backlash many of these businesses are "not" opening again.

·       Investment in new businesses or expansion of existing ones has come to a grinding halt, with no logical end in sight.

·       The discontinuation of so many self-employed.

·       The very difficult decision of the containment of the virus and/or the over whelming desire to open the country to promote this stagnant economic situation.

 These are all comments coming from Cuba yet sounding very similar to the United States. That again confirms the factor we are much more alike than different. We all want what's best for our families, and to live in peace and harmony with everyone.  Why is this so hard to accomplish?  

 There had been four days without a new case of the virus, which is a positive report. Yet today there were new cases: 

·       2 new cases Havana

·       2 new cases in Matanzas

·       2 new cases in Santa Carla

·       No deaths

 So when we look at these numbers I must say congratulation Cuba. Give them credit when credit is due. This is not to say they have not struggled with hardships "they have." Tremendous food shortages, increased prices on what is available, totally quarantined, plus no fuel. For sixty years they have endured suffering, shortages, special periods, restrictions that you and I cannot imagine. Yet they smile and pray for us. 

More Information:

 Welcome Emmanuel Bradenton UMC, with Pastor Kimberly Uchimura and Oneco Bradenton UMC with Pastor Gene Maddox have stepped forward during this difficult time here in the United States, with the adoption of sister churches in Cuba. 

 The Annual Conference in Cuba has been canceled and henceforth there will be no pastor changes at this time. Cuba has extended the closure of its airspace until July 1st. American Airlines first flight into Havana is July 7th. 

 August 25th drop off date of items for the ship container is between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. at Christ Venice UMC, 1475 Center Road, Venice, 34292. Please email christforcuba@gmail.com if you are bringing items or have any questions. 

 Thank you so much to everyone that has sent funds to purchase medical supplies and medicines it is very much appreciated. Donations are still being accepted. 

Dan Christopherson 
Direct Line: 941-468-7209    

Ship Container Preparation

 I am asked every day, "what can I do to help Cuba and my sister church?" I have a saying my Cuban friends love, "Pray and Push."  First thing you do is Pray not once, not twice, not every other day or when you think about it. But every day, morning, noon, and night. Second, Push forward, do something about it!   Plan, dream, strategize, talk to others, and hear their ideas and then execute the plan.   All things are possible when you have God on your side.

August 25th from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Christ Venice UMC (parking lot),

1475 Center Road, Venice, Florida 34293

  This is the date and drop off time for our next ship container shipment. I want to thank you that have notified me you have items you want on this shipment. Now for the rest of you.....If you have a sister church, they need you!  If you are an individual with a humanitarian heart the Cuban people need you.

We want to make this a medical shipment.  If you are unable to shop for medical supplies, I will gladly do the shopping for you.  Please make your check payable to:

Southwest District Mission Program, Inc.

Attn. Dan Christopherson

125 Treviso Court

North Venice, Florida 34275

 We will handle it for you no matter how small or large the donation. Just write on the check medicines. In this way everyone will be able to help. Listed below are some much needed medical items and medicines. If you are sending medical equipment and supplies. We request they be gently used or new.

• Wheelchairs

• Walkers

• Devilbiss Suction Unit *Must be new

• Blood Pressure Monitor

• Blood Glucose Monitor

• Thermometers

• Blankets (light weight)

Medicines & Supplies**

• Children cold and flu

• Children vitamins (no gummy pills)

• Adult vitamins

• Children aspirins, Ibuprofen

• Adult aspirins, Ibuprofen

• Medicine for Parasites

• Medicine for Scabies

• Feminine Hygiene Products

** Expiration date on all medicines late 2021 or 2022

    Rules and Regulations

1. Drop off date and time as stated above: "No exceptions."

2. Cost at drop off $2.50 per pound, you can weigh before arrival or we will have scale available. Checks "must" accompany drop off made payable to: Southwest District Mission Program, Inc.

3. Churches and individuals anticipating dropping off items please email: christforcuba@gmail.com before August 15th.

4. Do not seal boxes, all boxes will be opened and inspected before shipment (at cargo drop in Miami).

5. Maximum weight per box 40 pounds.

6. Please note there are other costs involved. Those figures are unknown at this time, you will be billed for:

   1. Cost of trip from Venice to Miami

   2. Cuba custom tax paid in Havana

   3. Cost of transportation and handling to final destination from Havana to sister church.

In Christ,

Dan Christopherson

christforcuba@gmail.com

www.christforcuba.com

Direct Line: 941-468-7209