Delivering Hope to Honduras Through Shipment #13!

May 29th, 2026 Newsletter

As our 13th international shipment of 2026 made its way to Honduras, it carried more than supplies. Packed inside were pieces of protection, service, and hope — including much-needed fire gear for communities in need.

Midwest Mission began sending fire gear several years ago because one person asked the right question. Pat Baumer, former Board Member and current Ambassador, served at a local fire station and was shocked by the amount of gear that was “expired,” and could no longer be used by their department, but was still in really great condition. He often wondered if it would be possible to send retired fire gear around the world to firefighters in need. So, we asked our partner, Food For The Poor, and they responded with a resounding “YES!” Midwest Mission began shipping firefighting equipment to countries like Honduras, where many departments do not have a budget for proper safety gear. Midwest Mission is the only organization that sends fire gear through Food For The Poor.

Later, during a visit to Honduras, Pat experienced a moment he never expected. While visiting a local fire department, he spotted a mask for an air tank that once belonged to his former fire chief.

What had once served firefighters in the United States was now continuing its purpose thousands of miles away, helping equip firefighters in Honduras. The moment served as a reminder that every donated tool, every piece of gear, and every volunteer hour can become part of a much bigger story.

Here’s a look at the contents of the shipment:

• Fire equipment such as gloves, jackets, pants, helmets, boots, air tanks, breathing apparatus, hoses, and water reservoirs

• 2,800 Personal Dignity Kits

• 9,978 Disposable Diapers

• 675 Bed Pads

• 144 Cases of Sponges

• 1,228 Hospital Blankets

• 8 Treadle Sewing Machines

• 13 Cabinet Electric Sewing Machines

• 60 Home Care Kits

  
  

The total value of this shipment is $135,002.50. 

You can talk to your local fire department about donating their gear that is no longer used. You can download a flyer here to share with them!

“We know God is working in this ministry,” said Executive Director Chantel Corrie.

Through partnerships, volunteers, and generous donations, we are able to continue to send practical relief and hope to communities around the world and around the corner — one shipment at a time.

After God’s Own Heart: A Story of Faithful Service in Whitewright, Texas

In Whitewright, Texas, a group of dedicated volunteers from First United Methodist Church and the surrounding community is quietly making a lasting impact. Over the months of March and April, these women contributed a combined 150 hours of service, sewing practical items that will bring comfort, dignity, and care to people around the world and around the corner through Midwest Mission.

The effort began years ago when Mary Grant started sewing cloth diapers for an orphanage in Port-au-Prince, Haiti that she personally supported. What began as a small project soon grew as other women in the church became interested and joined her efforts. Before long, a handful of volunteers were sewing diapers together, united by a shared desire to serve others in meaningful ways.

After her volunteer work in the early 2000s with Midwest Mission, Mary later re-engaged and introduced the idea of expanding the group’s sewing efforts. The group began making Layette gowns, receiving blankets, feminine hygiene pads, and other supplies sent to communities in need around the world.

As the project continued to grow, so did the support surrounding it. What started with just a few women grew as others from the church, people in the community, and visitors from other churches began noticing the work, asking about it, and joining in. Some volunteers sew during organized sewing days, while others take prepared kits home to complete projects on their own. Donations of fabric and supplies from the community continue to help sustain the work.

When Mary and her husband began traveling full-time, her friend and fellow volunteer Jan Sager helped continue organizing the group in her absence. She maintained the systems that allowed the work to continue year-round and ensured volunteers always had access to patterns, instructions, and prepared materials. 

Today, the group has become far more than a sewing ministry. It is a reflection of a community committed to serving others through simple acts of care and faithfulness.

Reflecting on the women involved, Mary shared, “They really want to do what’s right.” She described them as people striving to have hearts like God’s — compassionate, generous, and willing to help wherever there is need.

Through every stitch, that spirit continues to shine.

If you would like to learn more about serving right where you are, and creating items that bring comfort and care to people in their time of crisis, visit https://www.midwestmission.org/at-home.

Trailer Needed

Midwest Mission is currently searching for:

• One enclosed 20’ trailer

• One enclosed 28’ (or larger) trailer

If you, your business, or someone you know would be interested in donating or partially donating a trailer, we would love to connect with you!

Call 217-483-7911 or email office@midwestmission.org.