WMUMC - Honduras Medical Mission

Warwick Memorial
Honduras Medical Mission

This is a United Methodist Volunteers In Mission (UMVIM) team that provides basic medical care and referrals, for those needing specialized care, for some of the most isolated and poor people in Honduras. This team has been going to the mountains of Honduras for 10 days each summer since 2002.

They start each clinic at the local school by saying that they come from the United States representing their brothers in Christ there who have helped them raise funds and collect medicines and eyeglasses for their trip. They explain that Christ loves us some much that he died for our sins and now requires us to love one another and to put that love into action, and that that is what they are doing there. After the team is introduced, someone in the community, usually the pastor, starts the clinic in prayer and then all say the Lord's prayer, them in Spanish and the team in English.

They give each child 6 months or older vitamin A so their eyesight, brain, and immune system can develop properly. Each child 1 year or older receives parasite medicine. Both last for the 6 months it will take for another team to visit them. Each child also gets liquid or chewable multivitamins to take every day. Every child receives crayons and a coloring book depicting the life of Jesus. All the pregnant women get prenatal vitamins. Then one of the nurses or doctors see all who are sick and provide them with any medicines they need. Those having problems with their vision are given an eye test and eyeglasses, if needed. Education on hygiene and nutrition is also provided. Prayer is also provided for anyone that requests it.

Last year the team provided:

Consultations for 2,284 people in 5 communities.
Referrals for 20 children to receive a wheel chair, therapy, or to see a specialist or a surgeon.

These referrals are paid by the Friends of Barnabas Foundation which organizes the trip. The foundation has built a house for those recovering from surgery to keep them from getting infections and to educate their mothers on hygiene and nutrition. If you want to join or support them contact the team leader Carlos Liceaga at carlosliceaga@cox.net.

They want to be Christ's hands in Honduras and here as well. For a donation, they have people willing to do housework chores and handymen willing to tackle small house projects. For example, they have done yard work and cleaned houses and windows.