Imagine No Malaria is a concerted worldwide effort by the people of the United Methodist Church to end deaths from malaria in Africa. It has already shown positive results. However, there is still work to do. Every 60 seconds, someone dies from malaria even though it is a preventable and curable disease. The majority of deaths involve children under age 5 and pregnant women.
The approach by the United Methodist Church is comprehensive and involves 4 areas:
• Prevention: Nothing But Nets program providing mosquito nets, draining standing water, and proper sanitation.
• Education: Training community-based workers to recognize symptoms and dispel myths.
• Communication: Teaching the need for and how to use mosquito nets, radio broadcasting lifesaving information to communities.
• Treatment: Hospitals and clinics providing rapid diagnostic kits and lifesaving medications.
HPCUMC has committed to contribute $50,000 over the next two years to the Imagine No Malaria Conference Campaign. The Hyde Park Church Endowment will match dollar for dollar up to $25,000 for a total of $50,000.
The first phase of our campaign is the “Bring Change for Change.” This is a family affair involving the children and youth of our congregation. Fill those boxes with your change! The filled boxes will be consecrated during the church services on November 8th. Your change can make a real change.
Phase two of the campaign will involve a Christmas alternative giving opportunity. Christmas cards will be available in the Welcome Center during the holidays with the proceeds going to the Imagine No Malaria campaign. It is a true Christian gift that can mean so much. Imagine No Malaria will continue to be a visible way to put our faith into action to permanently eradicate malaria for our brothers and sisters in Africa. Just Imagine… No More Malaria!
Dr . Warren and Karen Webster