We have received a number of questions about the packages we send to Msgr. Albert:

Q:  I understand it takes two to three months or even more for Msgr. Albert to receive the packages we send him.  Why does it take so long?  How are the packages shipped?
A:  Msgr. Albert asked that we do not send packages directly to him in Ghana because of the high risk that the packages could be stolen or pilfered.  Instead, he has made arrangements to receive packages through an organization in The Netherlands.  We send packages by Air - Parcel Post to The Netherlands, which is why the postage is so expensive.  They arrive in that country within a week or two.  From that location, packages to Msgr. Albert, as well as other missionaries throughout Africa, are put on a ship and transported to Ghana and other countries in that manner.  Ships set off for Africa about once every two months or so.  Depending on the timing, Msgr. Albert says that occasionally packages may arrive within a month.  More often, however, it takes several months from the time a package leaves Kennett Square before he is opening it in Ghana.  Msgr. Albert doesn't mind waiting three months, however, because he says that packages sent through The Netherlands are very secure and always arrive safely in Ghana.  He has never lost a box yet. 

Q:  Are packages sent to Msgr. Albert on a regular basis?
A:  At this time, supplies are not sent on a set schedule, but rather when we have sufficient donated items as well as the funds to cover postage.  A standard office-size box full of supplies usually costs between $60 to $70.  Father's colleagues in Ghana have just contacted him to let us know that the last couple of boxes we sent to him this summer have arrived.  Because Msgr. Albert is currently on a Sabbatical leave here in the United States, his colleages have opened the boxes and supplies were distributed among his people.  We are now collecting items for another box(es), which we hope to ship in January.

How can I make a donation to send to Ghana?
A:  Donations can be made in various ways.  You can contact Mary Buffington at (610) 388-6711; Joe Scalise at (610) 444-3932; or Pat McAdams at (610) 444-1669 or pmcadams@nasw.org to make arrangements for dropping off an item for one of our boxes -- or a donation toward postage.  If it is more convenient, you may also leave items in the vestibule of the Church, clearly marked for Msgr. Albert.  You can also leave items at the Parish office during regular business hours.

Q:  What kinds of medicines are most needed?
A:  We need Aspirin, Tylenol, Aleve, and other pain remedies as well as cold, sore throat, and flu remedies; also, toothbrushes and toothpaste, and first aid supplies.  Basically, just think about the kinds of things you may have in your medicine cabinet.  All these items are appreciated in Ghana because they simply are unavailable.  Msgr. Albert's ministry is primarily to adults -- mostly men.  At this time at least, we do not need cosmetics and toiletries specifically for women, or items for children.  It is best to avoid liquids to avoid the risk of spillage during the long voyage abroad.

Q:  What other kinds of things can Msgr. Albert use in his ministry?
A:  Msgr. Albert has asked for new linens such as standard-size bed sheets, blankets, and towels.  He can also use 100 percent cotton T-shirts (V-necks preferred) and undergarments in assorted men's sizes.

Q:  Can I donate "used" items to Msgr. Albert?
A:  Because shipping costs are so very high, we send only new and unused supplies to Msgr. Albert.  We ask that everything be brand new.

Thank you very much.