Mission Team Member Guide

Dear Samaritan’s Feet Team Member,

Welcome to the team! This will be a life-changing experience. We are excited that you have chosen to serve with Samaritan’s Feet. Please take a few moments to review the following information in this packet. Hopefully you will find this information helpful in your planning process.

Please have this guide available during your team meetings. Included you will find the following:

• Team Meeting Information

• Finance Policy

• Fundraiser Aids

• Basic Travel Information

• Code of Conduct

• Shoe Distribution Basics

• Team Bible Study (Pre-Trip for team meetings)

There will be several items that are country- or trip-specific that will be covered during your team training sessions. Each Samaritan’s Feet International trip has a certified team leader. Your team leader will conduct your training sessions as well as answer you pre-trip questions. They will travel with you and work with our in-country host. They will also serve as the leader during the team projects.

Again, we look forward to serving with you as we strive to share a message of hope through the gift of a shoe.

Many Blessings, The Samaritan’s Feet Missions Department 980.939.8150 missions@samaritansfeet.org

MISSION

SAMARITAN’S FEET MISSION STATEMENT

Samaritan’s Feet serves and inspires hope in children by providing shoes as the foundation to a spiritual and healthy life resulting in the advancement of education and economic opportunities.

QUICK FACTS

• Over 1.5 billion people are infected with diseases that are transmitted through contaminated soil (World Health Organization, 2020).

• Shoes and socks are reported to be in the “Top 5 Items Needed” by students in school (Champions for Kids, 2015).

• There are 767 million people living in poverty who can’t afford education and basic necessities like clothing and shoes (World Bank 2013).

SAMARITAN’S FEET STATS

• Distributed over 7.5 million pairs of shoes around the world.

• Served in 108 countries.

• Served in 41 states in the U.S.

• Served in over 400 U.S. cities.

• Mobilized over 79,000 volunteers in the last six years.

OUR STORY

The vision for Samaritan’s Feet was conceived one hot summer afternoon at a camp in Lagos, Nigeria. A missionary from Wisconsin befriended a young African boy named Emmanuel “Manny” Ohonme. Manny, like so many other children in Africa and around the world, had never known the comfort and security of owning a pair of shoes. This missionary, or “Good Samaritan,” gave a message of hope to that 9-year-old boy through a life-changing gift—he gave him his first pair of athletic shoes.

With that new pair of shoes for inspiration, Manny was able to begin sports in Africa. He specifically developed a love, as well as superior talent, for competitive basketball. His skill and confidence continued to flourish and his hard work and determination paid off. He was offered the chance to attend an institution of higher learning in America under a full basketball scholarship! He met his wife, Tracie, while attending the University of North Dakota (Lake Region) and he later earned an executive position in a leading technology company.

In spite of his successes in America, Manny never forgot the other little boys and girls in Africa who were still living under the strain of poverty, drug abuse, war, gangs, and other criminal activity. Determined to aid and inspire hope among impoverished people in Africa, as well as in the United States, Manny left the comfort and security of his executive position to birth the vision of Samaritan’s Feet.

In 2003, Manny and Tracie founded Samaritan’s Feet International with the goal of providing 10 million children with a new pair of shoes and an encouraging message of hope and love.

Through Samaritan’s Feet, Manny has the opportunity to continue the legacy of love and hope he received when he was given that pair of shoes. He has the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of millions.

If you would like to learn more about Manny’s story and the impact a pair of shoes had on his life, please read his autobiography, Sole Purpose.

MANNY & TRACIE OHONME

TEAM MEETINGS

Each team will have three basic meetings: The first two meetings will be conducted by a phone conference call and the third (when most of the team is from the same area) will take place either at the Samaritan’s Feet office in Charlotte, NC or at a designated place. This will allow for the team to meet in person and pray together for the upcoming trip. All team meetings will have a time of devotion and prayer.

You will be contacted via email approximately three months prior to our trip departure from your team leader. In that email, you’ll be given the date and times of your team meetings along with the conference call phone number and instructions. Friendly reminders for the team meetings will be sent prior to the meeting taking place. After each team meeting, your team leader will email a copy of the team meeting notes.

Team Meeting #1

Cover basic information such as packing, dress code, schedules, and the importance of flexibility. This will be a phone conference call.

Team Meeting #2

Cover in-country schedule, code of conduct, in-country emergency contacts, flight schedule, basic assignments (daily devotions and the “Just in Case” plan), and review the importance of flexibility. This will be a phone conference call.

Team Meeting #3

Review the daily schedule, set time to meet at the airport, receive team t-shirts and insurance cards, and possible supply prep. We will also have a time of food, fellowship, and prayer for the trip. Those out-of-town will be contacted by the team leader for final questions.

Orientation

Cover details and questions for shoe distributions and review the importance of flexibility. This meeting happens in-country and in person with the entire team.

TRIP LOCATION:

DATE OF TRIP:

CONFERENCE CALL NUMBER: CODE:

TEAM MEETING #1 DATE:

TEAM MEETING #2 DATE: TEAM MEETING #3 DATE AND LOCATION:

TEAM MEMBER NAMES:

NOTES:

TIP FACEBOOK FRIEND REQUEST YOUR FELLOW TEAM MEMBERS AND MISSIONARY HOST (IF POSSIBLE) AS A WAY TO BECOME FAMILIAR WITH EACH OTHER AND KEEP IN TOUCH.

FINANCIALS

REGISTRATION AND DEPOSITS:

To secure your spot on one of our Mission’s trip, you must submit a completed application, copy of your passport, and a $150 non-refundable deposit.

PAYMENTS:

• For individuals: Payments may be made by going online to www.samaritansfeet.org/donate or by mailing a check to PO Box 78992 Charlotte, NC 28271. For individuals and groups: PayPal donations will not be accepted for missions trips due to large fees. Exceptions cannot be made for groups, but may be made for individuals at the discretion of the Finance Department.

• For Groups: Checks and online donations will be accepted, but must be submitted along with the allocation breakdown (list of recipients and how much they should receive).

Note: If a donation larger than $10,000 is to be made online, the individual must contact the Mission’s Coordinator one week prior. This policy does not apply to check donations.

Note: For online donations, please include the team member’s name and trip country in the special instructions section. For checks, please write the team member’s name and trip country on the memo line.

PAYMENT DEADLINES:

Payment schedules are as follows (some dates may be adjusted for specific trips. Please see your Trip Flyer for exact dates):

• 1st installment due 12 weeks prior to departure

• 2nd installment due 8 weeks prior to departure

• 3rd installment of any outstanding balance due 4 weeks prior to departure

Note: This installment schedule represents the minimum required deadlines for participation in a Samaritan’s Feet trip. Payment in advance of these scheduled dates is permitted.

AIRFARE:

The price of airfare is not included in your trip cost, unless otherwise noted. Airfare will be purchased by Samaritan’s Feet on behalf of the individual. Actual airfare cost for the trip will be confirmed 8 weeks prior to trip departure.

TRIP COST:

The cost of your trip includes all ground transportation, exit/entrance fees into the country, baggage fees, lodging, meals, scheduled excursions, trip insurance, background checks, two team t-shirts and ministry supplies. Note that the following items are not included in the cost of the trip: passport fees, Visa fees, immunizations or shots, and the cost of airfare, unless otherwise noted.

INVOICES:

• For Individuals: Team members will be sent regular invoices by Samaritan’s Feet following the outlined payment schedule on the trip flyer.

• For Groups: Regular invoices will be provided to group individuals unless otherwise specified. If groups would like a copy of these invoices, or a regular report detailing donations, they must provide written notice to Samaritan’s Feet.

FINANCIALS

CANCELLATIONS:

•

For Individuals:

- If Samaritan’s Feet cancels a trip for any reason, individuals will be notified. Individuals will have the option to transfer their balance to a future Samaritan’s Feet trip within the following calendar year of the originally scheduled trip. Other than the $150 deposit, donations made towards a trip cannot be returned as they are considered tax-deductible donations towards Samaritan’s Feet International.

- If a participant cancels their trip 30 days or less prior to departure, all collected funds will be used for the mission, as, by that point, those funds will have been used for the trip’s expenses.

- If a participant withdraws from a trip outside of 45 days prior to departure, they will be given the option of applying their balance of funds raised, less a $300 change fee, to a future Samaritan’s Feet trip to be taken within 12 months of the withdraw date.

•

For Groups

:

-The above policy also applies to groups. A group does, however, have the option to swap out individuals if permitted by the Director of Missions and airfare was purchased at a group rate.

FUNDING OVERAGES:

In the event that an individual or group raises more than the required amount for their trip, any overages will be credited as a donation to Samaritan’s Feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out. We understand events and circumstances can be out of our control.

FUNDRAISING TOOLS

We want to help you in your fundraising efforts for your trip. Many team members have had great success with writing fundraising letters and setting up an online fundraiser. Below is a sample letter you can mail to potential supporters.

When sending a letter, include a return envelope with a stamp and addressed to Samaritan’s Feet. This will make it easier for others to contribute. If someone donates via check, please have them write your name in the memo line of the check so that our finance department associates the donation with your specific trip.

SAMPLE LETTER

Dear [Name],

I would like to tell you about an exciting opportunity that I’ve been given. In [Month of Trip], I’ll be traveling to [Country] with Samaritan’s Feet International. I am a member of one of their international Shoes of Hope teams and will be serving children in need throughout [City, Country].

Samaritan’s Feet is an international missions organization that uses shoe distributions and feet washing as a tool to build relationships and share the love of Christ. There are many different types of projects with Samaritan’s Feet, but the one I will be participating in is [include more info like if you’re doing tutoring, construction, VBS camps, etc.].

I am so thankful for the gifts the Lord has given me and I’m excited about the service opportunity He has provided. I would really appreciate your prayerful consideration of helping me financially on this journey or by prayer. Both types of support are vital to the success of our mission project. I will contact you in a few days to see if you have any questions. I have enclosed a return envelope for your convenience.

Thank you,

[Your Name]

ONLINE FUNDRAISING

The online fundraising tool is an easy way for you to raise support and share about your mission trip. Take this opportunity to tell how and why you got involved with Samaritan’s Feet and what drew you to the country you’ll be traveling to.

To create your online fundraiser, go to SamaritansFeet.org/Fundraiser and follow the instructions to set it up and personalize it. If you need assistance setting it up, please contact the Missions Department at missions@samaritansfeet.org.

Once you have created it, share the link via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, email, etc. with your friends and family so that they can join you on your journey to serve others! The more people you tell, the quicker you’ll reach your goal.

TIP

CONSIDER PURCHASING SMALL THANK YOU GIFTS SUCH AS BRACELETS OR BOOKMARKS TO GIVE TO YOUR FINANCIAL AND PRAYER SUPPORTERS WHEN YOU RETURN HOME.

BASIC TRAVEL INFORMATION

Please note that the following basic travel information is subject to change based on the country you are traveling to.

PASSPORT

• Passports are required for all international trips.

• To apply for a passport, go online to https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en.html.

• A copy of your passport must be submitted at the time of your application. Scanned copies are preferred, but a photo will be accepted only if the passport number is visible. If you are in the process of obtaining a new passport, please contact the Mission’s Coordinator and le them know the expected arrival date of your passport, which should be 30 days prior to your departure date.

• Your Passport MUST have a six month remaining validity from your departure date and make sure you have at least two blank pages in it.

VISA

Some countries, such as Brazil or Nigeria, require a Visa in advance. If your country does require a Visa, we will discuss this at the team meetings and help you with the process. However, it will be your responsibility to obtain your Visa, unless otherwise noted.

SHOTS AND IMMUNIZATIONS

Some countries require specific vaccines, so please see your trip flyer or team leader for details. Shots can be obtained through your family doctor or through your local Passport Health office (www.PassportHealth.com). Samaritan’s Feet recommends the following for all trips:

• Updated Hepatitis A & B

• Updated Tetanus

• Updated Routine Vaccines

FOOD AND WATER

If you don’t cook it, peel it, or boil it, we recommend you do not eat it. For example, no raw vegetables (not even lettuce on a sandwich) or no apples unless you peel it. Drink only bottled water. Tap water should never be used (not even to brush your teeth). No ice. We recommend you bring some protein bars or other small snack items.

Samaritan’s Feet asks that you share any food allergies or dietary restrictions as soon as possible. Samaritan’s Feet cannot guarantee that all restrictions will be met while serving internationally, but will try to the best of their ability. We must always ensure that we respect our in-country hosts, so please plan with snacks accordingly.

COMMUNICATION HOME WHILE IN-COUNTRY

Many locations will have limited access to the internet. Availability will be given to all team members to email their family, let them know they arrived safely, and give updates throughout the week. Many missionaries will have access to an international phone that team members can use. If you have a smart phone, the app WhatsApp or your iPhone works well with internet access with no extra phone charges. Emergency phone numbers will be given to you to give to family members.

All persons under the age of 18 not traveling with BOTH parents, must have the following additional documents submitted:

• A copy of the minor’s birth certificate.

• A notarized letter from parents or guardians not traveling with the minor. Even if one parent is traveling with the minor, this must be obtained by the non-traveling parent. The letter needs to state the following:

EXAMPLE 1: NEITHER PARENT OR GUARDIAN IS TRAVELING WITH MINOR

We, (print name of parent #1) and (print name of parent #2), give permission for our minor child (print legal name of child) to travel with Samaritan’s Feet International to the country of (print name of country) from (departure date) to (return date).

(signature of parent #1) (signature of parent #2) (signature of notary) (notary seal)

EXAMPLE 2: ONE PARENT OR GUARDIAN IS TRAVELING WITH MINOR

I, (print name of parent not traveling), the (mother/father), give permission for my minor child (print legal name of child) to travel with (print name of parent traveling), the (mother/father), as part of the Samaritan’s Feet International trip to the country of (print name of country) from (departure date) to (return date).

(signature of parent not traveling)

(signature of notary) (notary seal)

PACKING INFORMATION

SUGGESTED PACKING ITEMS

• Any Needed Medications

• Closed-Toe Shoes

• Flashlight

• Camera

• Travel Hair Dryer

• Ear Plugs

• Sunglasses

• Sun Tan Lotion

• Travel Toilet Paper

• Bug Spray

• Individual Crystal Light Packets

• Melatonin Pills / Sleep Aid

• Personal Toiletries / Wash Cloth

• Flip Flops for Shower

• Bathing Suit (one-piece or modest tankini)

• Adapters / Extension Cord

• Travel Pillow

• Hat

• Hand Sanitizer

• Chapstick

• Protein Bars / Snack Items

• Money Belt / Passport Pouch

ITEMS TO LIMIT

• Expensive Jewelry

• No Nail Clippers, Scissors, Knives, Razors, etc. in Carry-On Bag

• You can have one quart-size zip-lock bag for all liquids in bottles of 3.4oz or less. Large containers of lotion or shampoo must be in checked bags.

• If you’re bringing expensive camera equipment, computers, iPads, etc., please be aware that Samaritan’s Feet is not responsible for those items. We do our best to have secure locations, but some items are target rich.

TIP

FOR LONG PLANE RIDES, CONSIDER WEARING COMPRESSION SOCKS, DRINK LOTS OF WATER, AND CONSIDER MELATONIN PILLS OR A SLEEP AID (IF YOU HAVE NEVER USED A SLEEP AID, DON’T TAKE IT FOR THE FIRST TIME ON THE PLANE).

LUGGAGE & DRESS CODE

CHECKED BAGS AND CARRY-ONS

All checked bags are used for team supplies and shoes. All personal items must fit in your carry-on. You are allowed two carry-on bags: a small personal bag such as a purse or a backpack and one small suitcase. Please make sure your carry-on suitcase meets airline regulations. We will provide your checked bag of shoes and team supplies.

Please do not pack personal items in a checked bag that you may need immediately upon arrival. There is always the possibility of the checked bags arriving late or being delayed.

If you are leaving from the Charlotte airport, all checked bags will be delivered to the airport for you.

If you are departing from a different city, Samaritan’s Feet will ship the bag of supplies to you in advance so you can check them at your airport.

DRESS CODE

• Ladies: Bring a long skirt or dress for church. Always have the knee covered. Modesty is imperative—bra straps and shoulders must always be covered. On shoe distribution days, you will wear a Samaritan’s Feet t-shirt and jeans, capris, or casual pants. If wearing yoga pants, please make sure they are worn with a long t-shirt.

• Men: Bring a shirt with a collar and a pair of pants (not jeans) for church. On shoe distribution days, you will wear a Samaritan’s Feet t-shirt and jeans or casual pants.

• Sometimes the dress code will need to be adjusted for the culture we are serving. This will be discussed at team meetings.

TIP

ASK 3-7 PEOPLE TO PRAY FOR YOU AND YOUR TEAM. POSSIBLY ASSIGN SPECIFIC TRIP DAYS THEY WILL PRAY OR ASSIGN SPECIFIC PRAYER AREAS SUCH AS FINANCES, SAFETY, HEALTH, CUSTOMS, MINISTRY, ETC.

ASSIGNMENTS & “JUST IN CASE” PLAN

DAILY DEVOTION ASSIGNMENTS

We like to begin each day with a daily prayer and devotion. We ask each team member to take a turn leading the devotions for this day. This assignment will be made at your second team meeting. We do not assign a specific devotion. Feel free to share whatever is on your heart. Your team leader will instruct the team when and where the devotions will take place. We have to be flexible!

Sometimes devotions are done before breakfast, other times it is done in the bus on the way to an outreach, and sometimes during the evening wrap-up. We also like to end each day with a team wrap-up. During this time, team members often share what stood out to them that day. This can be a very special time of sharing with your group. This is also a great time to re-group and discuss logistics for the next day.

THE “JUST IN CASE” PLAN

Sometimes we do service projects in addition to shoe distributions. This can include activities such as assisting with feeding programs, sports programs, medical clinics, Vacation Bible School, or drama programs.

During your second team meeting, leadership assignments may be made in various areas such as dramas, games, songs, crafts, etc. Each trip is different, but we do our best to plan all activities in advance. However, it is best for all teams to have a very loose “just in case” plan….Just in case you are asked to do a program at the last minute, just in case the shoes are held up at customs and you need to do activities with the children, etc.

Remember, the American way is not necessarily the best way. It is a different way and we may need to sacrifice efficiency for relationships. There are three roles to help in your code of conduct:

BEING A GUEST OF THE CULTURE

Think of being in someone’s home. How would you behave, react, interact, etc.? Or conversely, what expectations would you have of a guest in your home? What might please or irritate you?

BEING A STUDENT OF THE CULTURE

Think of yourself as a student who is in this country to study and learn. How does a student get an “A” in school? What behaviors contribute to their success?

BEING A SERVANT WITHIN THE CULTURE

Think of being a person who serves everyone they encounter in the country. How does a servant approach those he or she serves? How does a servant handle difference in others?

It is very important that we remember we are representing the organization of Samaritan’s Feet as well as the Lord. What may be considered as acceptable in our culture can be greatly offensive in other cultures. The following is a basic guideline for the Ambassadors Code of Conduct. This may not be an all-inclusive list, therefore, please be sensitive to the requests of your team leader and in-country host. Some items may be adjusted depending on the country.

• Flexibility: Sometimes schedules and plans change—always remain flexible.

• Dress conservatively.

• Be considerate of your roommate and/or host family. Some local accommodations can prove challenging, so please be neat and respectful.

• Offer to help at meal times, wash your own dishes, and clean your table setting, etc.

• Not all meals may be what you want or would make at home. Be gracious. This is not a time for “thanks but no thanks.” Take a small portion and eat what you can. If you are planning to eat a snack later, please keep that information private as not to offend the cook or host.

• We should have limited access to the internet. Once you have contacted your family, be sensitive to others and limit your time online if others are waiting.

• Do not give your personal phone number or email address to anyone in-country. It is fine to share your Facebook information.

• Keep your conversations positive about the country and culture when in the presence of nationals. No inappropriate language.

• Stay in designated areas.

• Those of the opposite sex should not be in each other’s rooms or in isolated places alone. This is for team members as well as nationals (unless married, of course!).

• Do not isolate yourself with a child.

• Try to speak the language. Learn a few simple words and phrases in advance. Speak slowly with simple sentences when using an interpreter.

• Do not directly give money to those you meet. Talk to your team leader and they will clear all gifts with the in-country host. We want to ensure all funds are used for the intended project and often we may need wisdom on how to best accomplish this.

On our Samaritan’s Feet International Volunteer Application, your signature will be required to show that you will adhere to this Code of Conduct.

TIP

TAKE A PHOTO OF YOUR PASSPORT AND STORE IT IN YOUR PHONE.

Once the team is together in-country, a detailed orientation on how to conduct a shoe distribution will be held. Please remember the mission is NOT about the shoes, it is about the HOPE that is shared in Jesus. The shoes are only a “tool” to share our faith. When possible, we highly recommend you attend a shoe distribution in the U.S. prior to your international trip.

REGISTRATION & GREETING AREA

Often a table is set up at the entrance to check-in, register, and greet the children. This is best if manned by locals who know the recipients and language. Most of the time, the shoe recipients (or “guests” as we will call them here) are determined in advance.

WRISTBANDS & WAITING AREA

After checking in, a wristband is placed on the guest. They are then escorted to a waiting area where the “sizer” will greet them and write the needed shoe size on their wristband. Sometimes a story teller can entertain the children during the waiting time.

WASHING STATION

When a washing station becomes available a runner will escort the guest to that station. They will also retrieve the needed shoes and socks from the “shoe store” as well as change the water as needed. During this time the “washer” will begin a basic conversation as they remove the old shoes and gently wash the feet of the guest. After the guest is fitted with a pair of new shoes the “washer” can pray with the guest. The guest is then escorted to the exit area or the next activity center. The wrist band is cut off and often a treat is given. Hope has been shared!

DISTRIBUTION LEADER

The Distribution Leader, often the team leader, sets the pace for the entire fitting process, making sure there is no backlog at any one area. The Distribution Leader should represent these qualities:

• Well acquainted and personally experienced with all the jobs associated with sizing, running, washing, fitting, and the stockroom operation.

• Keep a constant flow of children from the other activities to the sizing area and keep an eye on the pace of the washers.

• Knowledgeable of all aspects of a shoe distribution.

• Responsible for the pace of the whole sizing, washing, fitting process, but also for the quality control of the process, which includes positioning of the washers and translators (when required), briefing volunteer washers to make sure they understand the task.

SHOE STORE & STOCKROOM

Working in the stockroom requires a unique discipline, strong physical work ethic and organizational skills. The effectiveness and coordination of the Stockroom Team sets the tone for the washing process. A disorganized or uncooperative Stockroom Team can makes things very difficult on the runners and washers.

The Stockroom Team has the responsibility of organizing the shoes according to size and making sure they are ready for distribution (unboxed, laced, and sorted by size). Starting when the team arrives until the very end of the distribution, the Stockroom Team has responsibility for the security of the shoes.

CROWD CONTROL

The main job of the Crowd Control Team is perimeter security and organization. This means keeping lines orderly and the people in line safe. Make sure your lines are not in the way of traffic or other activities that could possibly endanger the children.

Prior to the event, the Crowd Control Team should meet with the Distribution Leader and have an understanding of expected crowd size, available shoes for distribution, and the number of arm bands distributed. Turning away people is one of the hardest things to do. There is always a limit to what can be done, so the cut off is the cut off. This takes resolve and wisdom.

If at any time you fear for your own safety or the safety of the team, involve the Mission Coordinator immediately and it will be their call as to whether the event can continue or not, and that decision will be prayerful and based on sound risk management assessment.

WASHING TEAM

This job is central to the work at Samaritan’s Feet. The washer has a unique opportunity to bond with the guest and share encouragement and hope. Washers need to maintain composure at all times, especially as adverse situations arise (such as unhealthy feet, a revelation of abuse, etc.). Discreetly signal a runner or floater to get medical or counseling support.

Rotation: since most mission teams have limited personnel, it is very important that everyone rotates to the various stations. It can be very difficult to wash feet for consecutive hours.

RUNNERS

It is the Runner’s job to make the washers job easy and guest’s experience comfortable. The runner escorts the guest from the sizing station to the washer. This is an important bonding time and a critical time to make that child feel safe and loved. Ask them their name and encourage them and focus on that child. For some, this will be the time that they are separated from their parent or older sibling and they may be frightened. It is important at this time to be gentle, attentive, and to carry a smile on your face and in your heart.

Runners typically work with more than one washer, and it is also critical that you keep eye contact with your washers when you can. If they run into an issue (one requires counseling or medical attention, wrong size shoes, or a sock dropped in the wash basin) they will be trying to quickly and discreetly get the help and support that child needs, so watch for their signal for help, and when you get that call for help, go to them and provide it as discreetly and quickly as possible.

When runners request shoes from the stockroom, they need to make sure they have looked at the size on the child’s hand and noted whether they are a boy or a girl. The stockroom staff will ask you for SIZE and GENDER. You are also responsible for making sure you have the right socks with you when you leave the stockroom area. Runners may also have to change out the water for the foot washer.

SIZERS

Sizing shouldn’t be taken lightly. Inaccurate sizing results in issues for the washers. Remember, the more accurately you size, the more likely the runner will deliver the right sized shoes to the washer. If the washer has to send back the runner for different shoes, the child may get restless. More experienced washers will be able to fill this time well, but this can distract less experienced washers, especially if the sizes are consistently wrong.

Sizers should get feedback from the runner periodically as to the number and frequency of returns and to determine if there is a pattern. If there is, the sizer should adjust accordingly–remember, the sizers objective is to size the child so that the runner gets the right sized shoe the first time, 100% of the time. It is helpful for this process to run as smooth as possible.

WATER STATION

This person will keep basins filled with clean water for the runners to pick up. They will be brought used basins to rinse and refill. If clean water is not available, baby wipes will be used.

We understand that traveling to a different country and interacting with those facing unfathomable hardships can also take a toll on you personally. When you return home, you may experience difficulty adjusting back and or struggle as you ask hard questions. We encourage you to share about your experiences with your friends, family, church members, etc. Talking about your experience can help you process it.

If additional resources or insight is needed, don’t hesitate to reach out to our missions directors at missions@samaritansfeet.org who would be happy to connect with you on this.

BIBLE STUDY ONE

16 So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:[a] The old has gone, the new is here! 18 All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: 19 that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. 20 We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. 21 God made him who had no sin to be sin[b] for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

6 As God’s co-workers we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain. 2 For he says,

“In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.”[c] I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.

2 CORINTHIANS 5:16 – 6:2,NIV

Reconciliation: Making friends again after a disagreement. To restore to friendship or harmony. Settling a quarrel.

Ambassador: A permanent representative. A diplomatic Agent of the highest rank.

1. In 2 Corinthians 5:16 it says “so from now on we regard no one from a point of view”.

2. According to these verses, through whom did God reconcile us to himself?

3. What ministry did Christ give us? The ministry of .

4. In your mind, what is the “ministry of reconciliation”?

5. In verse 20 it tells us that “We are Christ’s .”

6. In verse 6:1, “As God’s fellow workers” we are urged not to receive God’s grace in

7. In verse 6:2, It says that “in the time of God’s favor He us and in the day of salvation He us”.

8.From 2 Corinthians 6:2, It says “I tell you, is the time. is the day of salvation”.

BIBLE STUDY TWO

23 Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people. Matthew 4:23, NIV 1. In Matthew 4:23, what three things did Jesus do as He went through Galilee? 1. 2. 3. 2. How does the mission of Samaritan’s Feet fall in line with these three actions?

6 I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. 7 So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. 8 The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor. 9 For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building. 1 Corinthians 3:6-9, NIV 1. In 1 Corinthians 3:6, Paul planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it . 2. What position does the one who plants and the one who waters have? 3. What is God’s purpose in these verses? 4. Who are God’s fellow workers? 5. Who are God’s field? 6. Who are God’s building?

As God’s fellow workers we are called to plant and water the seeds of faith in Jesus Christ. We should look for every opportunity. It is God who makes it grow.

BIBLE STUDY THREE

1 It was just before the Passover Festival. Jesus knew that the hour had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.

2 The evening meal was in progress, and the devil had already prompted Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. 3 Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; 4 so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist.

5 After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.

6 He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?”

7 Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.”

8 “No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.”

9 “Then, Lord,” Simon Peter replied, “not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!”

10 Jesus answered, “Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you.” 11 For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean.

12 When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. 13 “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. 14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. 15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. 16 Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.

John 13:1-17, NIV

1. In John 13:1, What did Jesus know?

2. From John 13:1, What did Jesus show them?

3. From John 13:3, Jesus knew:

a. That the had put all things under his . b. That he had from c. and was to God.

4. From John 13:4, What actions did Jesus take?

a. “… he up from the meal, b. took off his c. and wrapped a around his waist.”

5. Are you ready to do the same?

6. In verse 14 Jesus says “now that I, your and , have washed your feet, you also should one another’s .”

BIBLE STUDY THREE

17 You, Lord, hear the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, 18 defending the fatherless and the oppressed, so that mere earthly mortals will never again strike terror.

Psalms 10:17-18, NIV

In these verses, the Psalmist is referring to those in poverty, the afflicted, the fatherless, and the oppressed. Verse 18 ends with: “may terrify no more.” Poverty brings fear with it.

1. How do you feel about the poor?

27 Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. James 1:27, NIV

1. In James what did God accept as pure and faultless? To look after and to keep oneself from

Thank you for being a part of changing a child’s life by being an international mission team member. Your willingness to give your valuable time will certainly bring joy to others. You are a part of the Samaritan’s Feet family of servant leaders, and we encourage you to continue to stay engaged.

Please consider the following opportunities:

Volunteer at a shoe distribution in the United States. We have dozens of events throughout the you can be a part of.

Join the Sole Society. Become a monthly donor and know that your generous gifts provide consistent support the organization can rely on.

Sort shoes at our international headquarters in Charlotte. Be a part of the process that starts the chain reaction of life-change around the world.

Sponsor a distribution in your community. See how a pair of shoes can impact the lives of your neighbors.

Attend our Barefoot Gala. Come enjoy an unforgettable evening as we celebrate everything the organization has done.

Learn more at SamaritansFeet.org.