Notes from the Field

Every summer, God Is Grace visits the women they sponsor in their homes in Uganda. Over the years, the organization has realized that lack of light was an issue for almost every woman they spoke to. This past summer God Is Grace visited Uganda as a LuminAID nonprofit partner supported by our Subsidy Program, and ninety-eight women received a solar lantern for their homes.

“They literally were dancing with joy when we showed them what the LuminAID solar light was and how to use it. There is no power there, so these lights make a huge impact on a family allowing them to see.”

LuminAID worked with international humanitarian organization, Mercy Corps, to raise funds for and distribute 1,300 PackLite Hero 2-in-1 Superchargers in North Carolina. The PackLite Hero Superchargers help families to feel safe at night with extra-bright LEDs and allows them to charge their phones and stay connected with emergency services and family members.

When Hurricane Michael wreaked havoc along the Florida panhandle, World Central Kitchen was there to feed the survivors by the light of LuminAID solar lantern + phone chargers. Chef Jose Andres, the founder of WCK, flew down to Panama City to help with relief efforts by cooking and distributing hot meals.

In November of 2018, Alex Ray joined Honduras Hope for an unforgettable trip to the Yoro region of Honduras. Honduras Hope is a small nonprofit based in New Hampshire that works in several impoverished communities in rural Honduras.

Packing for the Peace Corps is quite the undertaking. So what do you need to bring with you for the next 27 months? Here's a list of must-have items for Peace Corps Volunteers, based on feedback from past PCVs. Make sure you're prepared with the items you need, but may not think of before departing. Know someone becoming a Peace Corps Volunteer? Here's where you'll find the perfect useful gift for their mission.

How can light make a difference after disasters? After a hurricane, fire, storm, or other disaster, many families are left in the dark. Humanitarian organizations often have difficulty getting light to those in need. Light can help families stay safe and comfortable, particularly after disasters. LuminAID is bringing solar light to communities in need worldwide. Learn how we're helping, from Puerto Rico to California.

Though these adventurers are constantly on-the-go, they also give back to the communities that have shown them friendship and kindness along the way.

To provide safe access to light, Students for Africa distributed LuminAID solar lanterns in Meserani, a Maasai village located in Tanzania’s Same District. Light and power are crucial for sustenance in any rural area, especially at night. “Having portable light makes it easier to walk at night and also more comfortable indoors. Women are able to cook in the home after dark and children are able to do their homework.”