Basic Tools Needed to Help Organizations and Families — April 13, 2011


Do you have extra tools around the house or workshop?  Are you or someone you know a super shopper who loves garage sales and/or watches for GREAT bargains?  We need your help in collecting good used or new hand tools to benefit non-profit organizations and families with limited resources.   

Friends of Cozumel is launching a new “hands-on” effort to teach local women how to do basic repairs.  Something is ALWAYS breaking!  Hardware and other parts needed for repairs in modest homes are readily available and inexpensive.  However, organizations and families don’t have the resources to pay for parts and labor.  They do not have the expertise to know how to do basic repairs themselves nor do they have tools, the two greatest barriers to getting things fixed.  Learning simple repair skills saves money, develops problem solving ability, increases self-confidence and helps families and organizations be self-sufficient.
 
Used or new tools needed (revised from April 1 posting) include 25 of each of the following:  small Crescent (adjustable) wrenches, Channel Lock (slip-joint) pliers, hammers (regular or small size), slotted screwdrivers, Phillips screwdrivers, metric tape measures (regular or shorter lengths of 3m or 12’+).  These sets of tools will be used to teach the classes then each participant will receive a set of 6 handtools in a zipper pouch (for tools up to 12″ long).  In addition, we need 3-5 electric drills with various size masonry bits (i.e. 1/4″, 3/8″) for a small project to be made during class and installed in each participant’s home or organization’s facility. 
 
There is no problem bringing hand tools or electric drills in checked bags via flights or cruiseship.  The Customs form states Goods considered as personal baggage: . . . “may include one set of hand tools and the suitcase, which may include one drill . . . wrenches . . . screwdrivers . . .etc.”    
 
A pilot class(es) will be held during the Fall Mission Week Oct. 23-30, 2011 for ~10 women.  Community leaders and volunteers for non-profit organizations that support families “in need” will be invited (i.e. NUAFA, other daycare providers, women pastors, volunteer lay leaders).  Classes will then be opened up to other interested women.   We anticipate expanding to 15+ participants during the Winter Mission Week Feb. 1-8, 2012.

Ways to get involved . . . coordinate a tool drive among your friends, family, church or other organization members.  Volunteer to transport a few donated tools to Cozumel when you visit.  Help teach , assist with skill practice or translate for the repair classes.  Interested? Contact Karen@friendsofcozumel.com

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