Reported by Kathy M. Newbern and J.S. Fletcher
We wish we had known about this organization when we took our African safari, but we can tell you, that having visited a local African village and seen children, their school and their homes, what Pack for a Purpose is doing will certainly deliver much needed goods while offering a simple way for American (and all) travelers to "give back" to places that give us incredible memories.
Pack For A Purpose is a simple concept that makes a big impact on the lives of children around the world. The organization was founded on the principal that every little bit helps. And that little bit is a small amount of holiday luggage space for medical supplies and educational materials.
As one of Pack For A Purpose’s biggest supporters, The Selous Safari Company in southern Tanzania has donated more than 30 kilos of supplies from traveling guests' suitcase space in the last year.
“Five pounds (2.27 kg) can be as much as 400 pencils or five deflated soccer balls,” said Rebecca Rothney, chairperson of Pack For A Purpose. “It’s startling to see just how little some schools and clinics have to work with. I believe we can all find a little space in our luggage for a bag of supplies. If enough people make small contributions, we have the potential to make an enormous positive impact.”
Daniel Draisey, general manager of The Selous Safari Company, says, “The school supplies have benefited a large number of children here in Tanzania, as they seek an education to move forward and improve not only their own lives but also the local community.”
Getting involved is easy. Before traveling, follow these four small simple steps to make a big difference in the lives of those who call your destination home:
• Step 1 - Visit www.packforapurpose.org and select your destination, for instance: Tanzania
• Step 2 - Find your lodging and its list of sponsored community projects and the needed supplies. For instance, under the Tanzania destination, look up Selous Safari Camp, Jongomero or Ras Kutani
• Step 3 - Choose which supplies you wish to bring. Five pounds (2.27 kg) is recommended
• Step 4 - Pack the supplies in your luggage and deliver them to the camp manager.
The Selous Safari Company offers an excellent way to see the hidden delights of southern Tanzania while making that big difference.
Choose from the Selous Safari Camp in the Selous Game Reserve, one of Africa’s least known, yet wildest conservation areas, or Jongomero, the only camp situated in the remote central south-western sector of the Ruaha National Park. Perfect for a beach break or a complement to a safari adventure, Ras Kutani is the ideal hideaway for those seeking solace, luxury and Tanzanian charm on the shores of the Indian Ocean.
Available for selected departures in September, Africa Odyssey (1-866-356 4691) offers a nine-night experience with The
Selous Safari Company from $4,964 per person (a saving of $1,689). The package includes accommodation on a full-board basis in all three properties with daily game drives in open sided 4x4 vehicles while on safari. Also included are
internal flights, taxes and surcharges. And don't forget to leave that space in the luggage to help the locals!
Tanzania Q&A
Q: Is it safe to visit Tanzania?
A: Tanzania is politically stable and travel into and around the country is completely safe. Guests of The Selous Safari Company will be escorted and transferred by plane to the camps or road to the beach lodge. Tanzanians are a friendly nation and the staff, guides and camp managers at all three properties offer first class service and expert knowledge.
Q:What makes Tanzania different to other East African countries?
A: Tanzania is relatively undiscovered and guarantees an authentic, off-the-beaten-track experience away from the maddening crowds and 4x4 trails of neighbouring Kenya and nearby South Africa.
Q: When is the best time to go to Tanzania?
A:Being so close to the equator, temperatures in Tanzania are fairly constant throughout the year, although camps close in the rainy season between mid March and 1 June every year.
Getting There
South African Airways and Virgin Atlantic offer one-stop routes from New York to Dar Es
Salaam (Tanzania’s international airport), taking under 20 hours. A tourist visa is
required and costs US $50 on arrival. Time difference from the U.S. is +9 hours.
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