Pre-Departure Packet - Project Bududa OVERVIEW

Congratulations! You have completed all FIMRC pre-trip requirements and are now cleared for travel. It is time to prepare for your volunteer experience in Uganda! In the following packet, you will find a wealth of information from packing tips, contact information, arrival logistics and more! Please read all information carefully and, of course, we are always here to answer any questions you may have.

A LETTER FROM FIMRC HEADQUARTERS CONTENTS

The Foundation for International Medical Relief of Children (FIMRC) is pleased 3 Meet the Team to welcome you to the FIMRC Family. We are looking forward to your service in Uganda and hope that you are too. This amazing experience will allow you to 4 Get To Know Bududa immerse yourself in a different culture while providing unique opportunities to get to 5 Know Before You Go know a community in the developing world. 6 Know Before You Go This packet contains useful information for your trip and will answer many of the 7 Language questions that you may have. Included is packing advice, arrival and housing logistics and an emergency contact list among other things. We hope that you will 8 Do’s & Dont’s take a moment to familiarize yourself with the content so that you can confidently 9 Packing Guide travel to our site in Bududa. We would like to make your volunteer mission as 10 Packing Guide cont. comfortable as possible, so if you have any further questions after reading through this packet, please feel free to contact us. 11 Arrival Process 12 Your Volunteer Mission As a volunteer with Project Bududa, you will carry out vital tasks in support of FIMRC’s mission to provide quality health care to children who are underprivileged 13 Accommodations and underserved. FIMRC realizes that to truly change the health care conditions 14 Transportation of places like Uganda, on-site medical attention is only one piece of the puzzle. Diligence in spreading the word about our mission is also necessary so that 15 Staying Healthy everyone is aware that there are children who do not receive the medical care that 16 Excursions & Departure they deserve. Your impact on the community in Bududa can be felt long after you board the plane home by simply sharing stories of your volunteer mission to friends 17 FAQs and family. We are so excited to welcome you to our FIMRC team and are proud 18 Stay Involved that you have decided to join the effort to create a world in which every child has an equal opportunity to benefit from modern medicine.

On behalf of the entire FIMRC team, we thank you for your support and hope your experience is nothing short of extraordinary!

Vikram Bahkru, MD Meredith Welsh Founder and Chairman Chief Executive Officer

Caitlin Huber Global Health Volunteer Program Manger

2 MEET THE TEAM

BRIAN PARK, Field RICHARD KIMANAYI, Operations Manager Health Outreach Coordinator Originally from Los Angeles, Richard has been with FIMRC Brian graduated from Boston since 2008 and is the Health College in 2013 with a B.A. Outreach Coordinator. He also trains the community in English and a minor in educators and PEPEs. Environmental Studies.

ALICE NASAKA, JAMES WAFULA, Guesthouse Manager Clinical Officer Alice assists the FOM in all James studied nursing at the things related to the Guest International Institute of Health House. She is responsible Science in Jinja, and later for purchasing supplies and studied to be a clinical officer at Kamapala International developing budgets and University. organizing events held at the guesthouse.

Brian and Alice are just two of the amazing team members you will be able to work with at Project Bududa. You will also have the opportunity to work alongside our clinic and outreach staff. Meet the rest of the team via the link below!

CONTACT INFORMATION Uganda FIMRC HQ, Philadelphia Brian Park, Field Operations Manager Caitlin Huber, GHVP Manager +256 736 521636 (mobile - available via WhatsApp) 404-441-7570 (mobile) [email protected] [email protected] Alice Nasaka, Guesthouse Manager Meredith Welsh, Chief Executive Officer 0785-80-5962 (mobile) 267-290-8151 (mobile) James Wafula, Clinical Officer FIMRC HQ Office 0785 74 8712 (mobile) 888-211-8575 • ext. 1 (Main Office : Mon to Fri 9am - 5pm EST) When calling Uganda from the US, omit the 0 and add +256, then dial the 9-digit number. When calling the US from Uganda dial 000 + 1 + • ext. 3 (24/7 Emergency Line) 10-digit number. For all calls within Uganda, simply dial the 10-digit number.

WhatsApp FIMRC encourages all volunteers to download WhatsApp prior to travel in order to easily communicate with in-country staff as well as friends and family back home. WhatsApp uses your phone’s Internet connection, instead of your cell data, to send text messages and to make voice calls. The app is a free download for iPhone, Android, and Windows phones.

2 3 GET TO KNOW PROJECT BUDUDA

Project Bududa is located in Eastern Uganda, approximately 150 miles east of the capital city of . FIMRC operates a Level III Health Center in Bududa that delivers acute and preventative healthcare to the under served Ugandan community. FIMRC’s first clinic in Uganda was originally constructed to meet the health and nutritional needs of children sponsored by a local school. However, due to the severe lack of access to medical facilities in the area we have moved to a new facility a few kilometers away. The new clinic serves patients from many surrounding villages in a wide geographical area. With over 30 full time staff and local volunteers, FIMRC provides high quality medical care and access to health education resources to a catchment area of over 40,000 individuals. To date, Project Bududa is FIMRC’s largest operating site. Project Bududa is a model for FIMRC strategy in the developing world, supplementing the lasting work done by temporary volunteers with the long-term investment of community involvement to create sustainable change beyond the clinic.

BACKGROUND Setting: Rural Population Size: 40,000 Climate: Tropical Communities Served: 14+

CLINICAL CARE Facility: FIMRC’s Level III Health Center Patients Served: 75 - 200 daily Services Offered: • Primary care: patients of all ages • Maternity ward • Antenatal care • Pharmacy: medications, pharmaceutical counseling • Laboratory: various diagnostic tests (STI, HIV, malaria)

COMMUNITY OUTREACH Health Education Programs: • Orphaned and Vulnerable Children Program • Post Test Club for HIV positive patients • Community Garden • Community Health Educator Program • Malaria net treatment campaigns • Patient Education Program in waiting room

4 KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

CURRENCY BUDGET TIPS

Exchanging Money & ATMs Volunteers generally incur costs during their trip for activities Uganda’s national currency is the shilling (UGX). There is not included in the daily volunteering program. The following no need to exchange money for your trip; you will be able is a list of common weekly expenses: to exchange your currency in the airport after landing in Entebbe. When exchanging currency, bring $100 bills newer • Tourist visa: $50 USD than 2009 for the best exchange rate, and receive small bills • Spending money: $100+ (miscellaneous expenses (20,000 UGX or less) to save yourself future hassle. ATMs such as local travel, meals outside of the house, and are available in Kampala, Jinja, and . As a general basic souvenirs) precaution, do not carry more money than is needed for the • Excursions: $100+ (dependent on excursion preferences) day. Uganda will not exchange any wrinkled or torn bills and NO currency before the date of 2009. TOURIST CARDS Notifying your Bank Before travel, you should notify your bank or credit provider Tourist cards may be provided on board the aircraft prior to that you will be traveling abroad, as unusual credit card use landing; if not, stop to fill one out after exiting the aircraft may trigger fraud protection and freeze your account. and prior to entering a visa line. Be sure to keep the yellow copy, as it will be requested upon departure. Visitors from any country must hold tickets and other documents for onward or return journeys; if passengers arrive without PASSPORTS & VISAS meeting this requirement, they may be asked to buy a ticket or possibly be refused entry and deported, at their own expense, on the first available flight. Immigration officers are To travel to Uganda, you must possess a passport. It is your very strict on this regulation. responsibility to have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of your trip. Your passport must contain at least two blank pages (Please note: pages reserved for amendments and endorsements cannot be used for visas). Be sure to carry a copy of your passport at all times.

All visa applications must be completed via the Government of Uganda’s website. Under the new application process, you must apply online for all immigration services such as visas at least two weeks prior to travel. The fee for a single entry tourist visa is $50.

Application Link: https://visas.immigration.go.ug SAFETY & STEP Visa or permit type: Visa Category: Uganda Ordinary/Tourist FIMRC is committed to volunteer safety, Subcategory: Single Entry security, and health. Upon your arrival, our team will give you a detaiiled orientation, which will Contact Person in Uganda: Brian Park include details on how to stay safe and healthy during +256 736 521636 your volutneer experience. Purpose of Visit: Tourism You may also register for the U.S. State Department’s Volunteers who are not U.S. citizens must check with their Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal information from the U.S. Embassy in Nicaragua. You are identification is required. Passport applications are available encouraged to save the Embassy’s contact information at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport prior to travel, which can be found on the Embassy’s Agencies. For more information, visit travel.state.gov/ website. passport/passport_1738.html.

5 KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

VACCINES & MALARIA COMMUNICATION

Vaccines FIMRC has three volunteer cell phones. The only requirement US citizen volunteers are referred to the US Center for to use them is the personal purchase of airtime, which can Disease Control (CDC) at www.cdc.gov for information be bought easily in Mbale and Kikholo. Calls to the U.S. regarding recommended and required vaccinations. We also are 600 UGX (about 30 cents) per minute and local calls are recommend asking your doctor or other health professional closer to 150 UGX (about 7 cents) per minute. If you have a any questions you have about vaccinations. YOU ARE phone that uses a SIM card and is unlocked for international REQUIRED TO HAVE THE YELLOW FEVER VACCINE TO use, you can switch to a local SIM card and use your own ENTER UGANDA. phone here. We will require you to bring a phone if you are leaving the village for any period of time, on all excursions, Malaria and on all day trips away from the clinic. Internet cafes are Malaria prophylaxis (such as doxycycline, malarone, or available in Mbale. There is no wifi in . Please mefloquine; NOT chloroquine!) is recommended for all do not purchase a calling card before your departure, as travelers. Volunteers are provided with mosquito nets. it may not be compatible with all phones outside the U.S. Though mosquitoes do not pose a serious threat in the Phone cards are easily purchased after arrival in Uganda and village, malaria is endemic in all of sub-Saharan Africa, are relatively inexpensive to use. including our village.

HIV/STDs PATIENT CONFIDENTIALITY Risk of HIV/AIDS and other blood-borne and sexually Privacy and patient confidentiality are essential to FIMRC’s transmitted diseases are present in Uganda and visitors mission and continued operations. Information relating to should abstain from unprotected sexual activity. patients and their treatment is confidential and must not be distributed or disclosed in any way. It is especially important Please check the Centers for Disease Control and for all volunteers to exercise caution when using the Internet Prevention’s website for current travel precautions, as or social media outlets, so as not to communicate any required immunizations are subject to change. sensitive or confidential information or images.

EVACUATION INSURANCE IMPORTANT ADDRESSES

FIMRC requires all volunteers to possess emergency medical FIMRC Guesthouse Address: evacuation coverage for the duration of the mission Red Brick House 1km beyond Xiolo Trading Center, Bupoto, trip. If your current health insurance does not provide this Bududa District. coverage, we recommend purchasing travel insurance that includes this benefit. Please contact us if you would like Project Site Mailing Address: assistance in finding adequate travel insurance. FIMRC/Arlington Academy of Hope PO Box 1647 Mbale, Uganda

ELECTRICITY To find more information on our location, you can look for Bududa, Uganda on Google Maps which will show you the The voltage used in Uganda is 240 Volts, alternating at 50 main town in Bududa district (Bududa Town). Check the cycles per second; the US uses 120 Volts. If you travel to topographic and satellite maps as well to see the diverse Uganda with a device that does not accept 240 Volts at 50 terrain in our district. Hertz, you will need a voltage converter. In addition, outlets can take on different forms, with the most ubiquitous two horizontal parallel flat pins with a grounding pin.

6 LANGUAGE

When communicating with locals, keep in mind that many educated Ugandans are generally fluent in English, which is the official language. However, over 30 different indigenous languages are spoken, with the most popular being Luganda and Swahili. Most people associated with FIMRC speak some English; however, you will encounter many villagers who do not speak English.

LUGISU GREETINGS NOTABLE WORDS/LOCATIONS

LUGISU ENGLISH WORD MEANING Mulembe “Moo-lem-bay” Hello Bagisu Local tribe

Wan-ya-la (nabi) Thank you (very much) Mugisu A person from the Bagisu tribe Ka-le You’re welcome, Goodbye Lugisu The language spoken by the Bagisu tribe Ya-ya Brother/sister (same age or younger) Bududa Our district Pa-pa Sir (literally “father”) Muzungu “outside visitor” Maayi “Ma-yi” Madam (literally “mother’) Kikholo Our trading center (small shops carrying basic Uryena? “ooh-ree-en-a” How are you? goods) – pronounced (pl. Mur-yena?) “CHEE-ho-lo” Bu-la-yi (Response to “Uryena?”) Mbale The closest city with I am fine services and restaurants; 1½ hours away by matatu Kamakhuwa? “Ka-ma-hu- What’s the news? What’s wa” cool? Matatu Minibus public taxi Ka-ma-layi (Response to “Kamakhuwa?”) News Boda-boda (or Piki-piki)” Moto taxi is good. Ka-si-la! (Response to G-nut “Ground nut” similar to a “Kamakhuwa?”) It’s peanut, used in meals cool! Jerry Can 20 liter plastic jugs used Wakinyala! “Wa-chin-ya- “Well done” (thank you for carrying water, gas la” for what you’re doing) Ni-na-we The same to you

In-go mur-yena? How is home?

Khuliyo Balaayi! “Hu-li-yo Home is good! ba-la-yi” Akhulinde “Ah-u Lin-de Good bye (God be with (pl: A-ba Lin-de)” you)

7 DO’S & DONT’S

Overall, the community where you will be staying is very friendly and safe. Just keep in mind the following precautions and you’re sure to have an incident-free experience.

DO DON’T

• DO take initiative and be proactive; we will provide you • DON’T give cash or gift handouts to locals (This is VERY with a detailed schedule, but speak with site staff after important – if you want to give donations to locals, you arrive if you have a particular interest please do it through FIMRC so that we can provide them in a safe and fair way) • DO feel free with our staff and ask to work with them • DON’T flash cash and valuables in public • DO build a rapport with the staff before offering advice • DON’T reach beyond your level of medical expertise by • DO spend time with community members in the fields “experimenting” on our patients and at their homes • DON’T make promises on behalf of FIMRC • DO have patience with cultural and communication barriers and with the slow pace of life in Uganda • DON’T allow locals to use clinic facilities without permission from FIMRC staff • DO put things back where they belong in the clinic and at the house • DON’T invite locals to the guesthouse without approval

• DO keep the clinic and guesthouse tidy and clean • DON’T travel or walk on the streets alone at night (regardless of what part of the village/city you are in • DO give us constructive feedback and help us improve or how far you need to travel). Carry a flashlight or headlamp with you. • DO be careful walking; pedestrians do not have the right of way in Uganda • DON’T take public transportation after dark.

• DO keep a copy of your passport with you. • DON’T travel in the back of pick-up trucks or lorries

• DO carry your bag next to you or your wallet in your • DON’T carry large amounts of money with you and front pocket. keep small bills easily accessible.

• DO watch out for traffic and other unexpected obstacles • DON’T wear flashy jewelry (especially anything gold) when in cities (Kampala and Mbale) and keep your watch in your pocket when you are traveling

• DON’T make yourself an easy target, always know where you are going, use well-lit streets, do not frequent places where problems are likely to happen.

• DON’T protest or resist if confronted but give the assailants whatever they ask for. Failing to do so will risk injury or death as many muggers are willing to use their weapons with little or no provocation.

8 PACKING GUIDE

It’s time to start packing! Below we have compiled a list of most commonly needed items. We ask that you be culturally sensitive and professional when choosing clothes to bring on your trip; low-cut tops, short shorts and other revealing clothing should not be worn to the clinic, in the community, or during other activities. You should limit your luggage to one suitcase plus one small backpack for your carry-on and daily use. Make sure you have luggage tags for each suitcase.

CLOTHING & SHOES

LIGHTWEIGHT WORK WEAR COMFORTABLE SHOES JACKET OR FLEECE Lightweight and loose-fitting work Comfortable sneakers, hiking shoes, or A sweatshirt, light fleece, or a few pants, long skirts or jeans (NO SKINNY sturdy sandals are a must for working cardigans are great to bring along. JEANS). Scrub pants are acceptable. in the clinic and community! A pair of Short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts good heavy duty sandals like Tevas or (employees at the clinic tend to wear Chacos are great! Don’t forget shower button downs). shoes.

SWIMSUIT SLEEPWEAR RAIN GEAR You may want to bring along a Don’t forget your comfy PJs. T-shirts, Traveling during rainy season? Pack a swimsuit for rafting, waterfall hikes, tanks, and shorts are just fine for lightweight rain jacket or poncho and and other weekend excursion options. lounging at the end of the day. rainboots or shoes that you don’t mind Don’t forget a beach towel! getting wet.

HAT & SUNGLASSES NICE OUTFIT FIMRC APPAREL The sun in Uganda is strong so be sure During your time in Granada, you may While not required, you can order to come prepared with a cap and/or visit local museums, markets, or go out FIMRC gear at www.fimrc.org/gear. sunglasses to block out those rays! to dinner. If so, you may want to have a Items are not available for purchase in nice outfit on hand. Nicaragua.

TOILETRIES

BUG SPRAY SUNSCREEN & ALOE HAND SANITIZER We strongly recommend that Pay attention to the SPF! The sun is Personal sized hand sanitizer is great volunteers wear effective insect strong so we recommend re-applying to have while working in the clinic and repellent. CDC recommendation is 30- your sunscreen throughout the day. community. Wipes are also great to 35% DEET. Aloe is great to have at the end of the toss in your bag! day.

TOOTHBRUSH & TOOTHPASTE MEDICATIONS PERSONAL ITEMS We are pretty passionate about dental Over-the-counter anti-diarrheal and Do not forget shampoo, soap, personal care! Don’t forget your floss! anti-constipation medications are hygiene items, etc. These are not recommended for travelers. If you are provided at the guesthouse. prone to motion sicknesses, prepare accordingly. Pack all medications in original labeled containers.

APPROPRIATE ATTIRE IN UGANDA Clothing for your trip should accommodate the diversity in weather and working environments that you will experience in Uganda. Uganda’s climate is tropical and rainy in between the two dry seasons that occur from December to February and from June to August. We live and work in a conservative community, so opt for modest clothing where possible. Ugandan women wear dresses or skirts well past the knee and cover their shoulders, while men usually wear pants (shorts are generally only worn by young boys). It is helpful to have more conservative clothing mixed in with your normal warm-weather wear. You should bring a business casual outfit in case of any meetings or events. For day-to-day wear, bring comfortable, lightweight clothing that you don’t mind getting dusty or dirty. Remember most clothing takes a beating in our rural setting. At the clinic, the staff usually dressed in button-down shirts, nice slacks and skirts, or scrubs.

9 PACKING GUIDE

SUPPLIES & TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

WATER BOTTLE LIGHTWEIGHT BACKPACK HEADLAMP Safe filtered drinking water will be Basic backpack to carry to the clinic Electricity is unrelieable in rural provided for the duration of your stay. each day that will hold your water Uganda. A headlamp or small flashlight Be sure to bring a sturdy reusable bottle and other small necessities. If its is recommended. water bottle. It is important to stay waterproof - even better! hydrated!

PORTABLE MUG GLASSES PLASTIC BAGS Hot beverage container for tea and Prescription glasses should be brought Grocery bags, small garbage bags, and coffee (portable, or a mug) *optional as a back up to contacts due to the ziploc bags are all great for organizing but great to have for morning clinic dusty environment. Don’t forget your and storing dirty laundry. commutes* contact solution!

EAR PLUGS SNACKS JOURNAL + PEN Great for snoring roommates! Peanut butter, protein bars, packs of We encourage all volutneers to reflect tuna, easy mac, tea/juice mixes, or on their experience and to document any other special snack / treat you the lessons learned and memories can’t easily get in Uganda! :) Staff love made each day. parmesan cheese and sriracha!

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS PHOTOCOPIES CONTACT INFORMATION Make sure your passport is valid for Make photocopies of all travel Please store all staff member contact six months after your travel dates. You documents and store them separately information in your phone and print a should also carry your driver’s license from the originals in case they are lost. hard copy to carry with you. or other form of photo ID. Don’t forget your yellow fever vaccine card!

LOST LUGGAGE It is useful to pack one change of clothes and essential toiletries in your carry-on in case of baggage delay. You must report any lost or damaged luggage at the time of the incident and obtain a written report from a local authority. If you have travel insurance, you will need to submit this report to your insurance provider. If your luggage is lost or damaged by the airlines, a baggage claim form must be filed with the carrier before leaving the airport. In the case that your luggage is lost, our staff will wait for you while you file your claim.

FIMRC is not responsible for lost or damaged luggage.

10 11 ARRIVAL PROCESS

Below you will find step-by-step instructions designed to help you smoothly navigate arrival in Uganda. Be sure to read through this information carefully and to print a copy of the staff contact information on page 3. Should you encounter any issues during travel or while at the airport, please contact the Field Operations Manager.

1

Airport Arrival Keep your seatbelt fastened until the plane has come to a complete stop and the captain has turned off the fasten seatbelt sign. Be sure to have your customs form filled out before leaving the plane and head to the immigration lines when you disembark from the aircraft..

2

Immigration In order to obtain entry into Uganda, please be prepared to present the following to the immigration officer: your visa (obtained prior to travel), passport, arrival card (typically given to you on the airplane, extra copies available in the immigration area if needed), copy of return ticket, and proof of yellow fever vaccine. Not all items here may be asked for, but you should be prepared to present these items upon arrival if requested.

3

Baggage Claim After immigration, you will proceed to baggage claim. Pick up a free baggage cart if needed and proceed to the carousel where your flight’s luggage is assigned to come in. Pickup your bags and make your way to customs. In the rare case of lost or missing luggage, please report directly to the airline and contact the FOM so we know you are delayed.

4

Customs This is the last procedure at the airport. On occasion, bags may be subject to a security scan or additional search. Once this process is complete, please proceed to the airport exit.

5

Meet FIMRC’s Driver A FIMRC approved driver will greet you at the airport. He will be wearing a FIMRC T-shirt and/or holding a FIMRC sign. If you do not see the FIMRC driver after you clear customs, please remain inside the airport in the waiting area; traffic in Kampala and Entebbe can be heavy, and unexpected delays are sometimes unavoidable. For emergencies, ask an airport staff member to assist you in calling the Field Operations Manager.

6 Travel to Bududa If you arrive prior to 3pm, you will travel directly to the village; if you arrive after 3pm, you will spend the night in either Entebbe or Kampala and proceed to the village the next day. During your trip from Entebbe to the village, you will stop to change money and for a quick snack and toilet break in Jinja (have your own toilet paper handy—or in a pinch, grab napkins, called “serviettes,” from restaurant inside). From there, it is about 4 hours to the village. Once you arrive in the village, you will receive an orientation from a FIMRC team member.

11 YOUR VOLUNTEER MISSION

First step accomplished: you made it! What is going to happen now? Every week here is different and plans change quickly so flexibility is key! To ensure that all volunteers have a sustainable impact that is relevant to community needs, your itinerary will reflect projects and activities created in response to current site needs and issues. Your specific itinerary will be reviewed with you during on-site orientation on your first day of volunteering.

MONDAY - FRIDAY Morning Afternoon Breakfast is prepared in the morning be ready to leave the After lunch staff returns to their stations. Volunteers will take guest house by 8:30 to arrive at the clinic by 9:00am. Tea and initiative to find the activities that best suit their interest Lunch are prepared at the clinic. Be sure to bring water, your during their stay. The main clinic closes around 5pm. The calendar, notebooks, pens etc in case you are selected for maternity ward is open 24 hours. outreach.

Potential Activities Potential Activities • Greet patients as they enter the waiting area • Second outreach teams leave with HIV/AIDs coordinator • Assist with intake before the patient’s consultation • Volunteers prepare their programs for afternoon • Rotate and observe at different stations presentations • Work on health education materials

CLINIC STATIONS

STATION I: Patient Intake STATION II: Vitals Patients receive health education, undergo initial triage, Patients have vitals taken and are examined and treated and are prepared for their clinic visit according to the Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) guidelines

STATION III: Exam Room STATION IV: Pharmacy All patient exams take place in the exam room under the Medication is dispensed in the clinic and patients are by a physician or clinical officer. also provided with medication counseling.

STATION V: Exit Interview ADDITIONAL CLINIC ZONES Patients complete an exit interview where they have In addition to these stations, the clinic contains a the opportunity to ask questions about their visit; staff functioning laboratory, an emergency care area, a ensure patients understand their diagnosis, treatment, two-bed patient rest/treatment room, a drug inventory and followup instructions prior to going home. room, an educational and meeting pavilion, a Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) area, and Maternal Child Health (MCH) area.

*FIMRC has no affiliation with Wafula Health Centre, Bukhaukha member of BAKHASI BESHISA GROUP

12 ACCOMMODATIONS

FIMRC’S GUESTHOUSE

Accommodation Details The FIMRC guesthouse is located on the main road through Bududa district on either side of Kikholo trading center. Wonderful FIMRC staff members work at the house, cook breakfast and dinner, clean, and do laundry. Accommodations include a common living area for eating, sitting, relaxing, and socializing; sheets and towels; cold- water showers (water supply permitting); a pit latrine and bathing shelter for bucket baths; dormitory-style bedrooms with mosquito nets on all beds; and books and games (feel free to bring more - especially Stephen King and history novels!).

Laundry & Linens Volunteers are welcome to hand wash all laundry, as needed. Guesthouse support staff also frequently handwash laundry for volunteers. Detergent is supplied and all clothing is line dried. MEALS

Breakfast and dinner are provided at the guest house. Breakfast usually includes either 1 egg (boiled or fried), bread, and tea. Bread and jam and other items are provided when available as well. Oatmeal, Ugandan peanut butter, and extra coffee can be purchased in the nearby town ($3-4 for week supply of oatmeal and $5-7 for a 2 week supply of coffee - the manager can be sent with money to purchase these or other extra items for individuals on monthly shopping days. Dinners at the guesthouse consist of rice, pasta, cassava (root), or potatoes with cooked vegetable mixes, raw vegetables, fresh fruits, and sometimes (twice a month at most) a meat dish.

Lunch is served at the clinic, usually consisting of beans, cabbage or greens, and rice or posho (milled corn powder cooked into a dense cake). Morning tea is also provided at the clinic on weekdays, which consists of fried breads (chapatti or mandazi), and hot tea. Bottled drinking water is also provided at the guest house. Remember to bring your own water to the clinic from the guest house! If you have any dietary restrictions, please let us know in advance and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.

Please be aware that meal portions are smaller in Uganda than in the US, and we make our guesthouse and clinic meal plans accordingly. We also serve Ugandan meals and food items grown and cooked locally. If you anticipate needing extra food or specialized food, please pack your own non- perishables or purchase food items during your trip from Entebbe to the village. Past volunteers recommend: coffee and tea mixes, jars of peanut butter, packs of tuna, cliff bars or other protein snacks.

12 13 TRANSPORTATION

FIMRC TRANSPORT LOCAL TRANSPORT OPTIONS

When you arrive, we will have transport waiting for you at Matatu (Minibus Taxi) the airport. All transportation is provided by reputable drivers Matatus are minibus taxis which tend to be an adventure that have worked with FIMRC for many years. of bumpy roads and overcrowded seats. They pick up in Kikholo or can be flagged down on the street. Kikholo is Your fees cover all transportation between the airport the end of the matatu route and they often turn around one and lodging. Transportation to and from the clinic is on trading center early in Bunamubi, which means that a 30 min foot. FIMRC’S clinic is about a 35-45 minute walk from the walk or quick boda ride may be necessary. Matatu is the guesthouse. This can be slightly strenuous given the high cheapest means of transport to Mbale and takes about 1 ½ altitude and challenging weather patterns (rain and heat) hours. but should not pose a threat to healthy volunteers. If you have concerns about how your health status will affect Boda-Boda (Motorcycle Taxi, also known as “piki-pikis”) your volunteer mission, please contact the Field Operations Bodas are more expensive and less safe than matatus, Manager or the Director of Volunteer Programs though they are the most efficient means of transport within Bududa District. They can be found in trading centers or The cost of motorized transport around our district and waved down along the road. Ask a staff member for the region is between $0.25 - $1.50 each way. Volunteers are phone number of a boda driver. expected to pay for local transport themselves in cash. Additional transport for optional activities and excursions Hiking/Walking will also be paid by the volunteer and can be arranged with Many areas are accessed by foot, often because the ground staff. If you require additional transportation for destination is not accessible by road. Even when the weekend or evening recreational activities, our team will be destination is on the road, a walk in the district can be quite glad to help you coordinate this, however, this would be an pleasant. additional cost not covered by your FIMRC fees. Private Hire Private hires are far more expensive than other means, though the most comfortable and convenient method. Ask the manager for a driver’s phone number.

14 STAYING HEALTHY

International volunteer experiences are often a time of reflection and internal change. Because you are often forced to deal with new and old situations, without your normal surroundings and support networks, it is important for you to monitor your own emotional and physical well-being.

TIPS FOR STAYING HEALTHY

Upon arrival in Uganda, you will receive a thorough orientation that will include tips on staying safe and healthy during your volunteer experience. Below you will find a few tips to begin considering before travel.

• Stay in good physical condition – eat well, sleep, relax, • It is important to not go swimming in any water sources avoid lots of caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, and sugar. due to water-borne diseases from snails, livestock, and other humans. When in the village, bring enough bottled water • Stay hydrated! Do not drink large amounts of alcohol or from the guest house to last the entire day. Although there caffeinated beverages when you suspect yourself to be is treated water available at the clinic, bottled water is not. dehydrated. Do not drink the tap water. • Use the support system of the program (friends, fellow • If you take any kind of medicine on a regular basis, you volunteers, FIMRC staff). should take with you a more-than-enough supply to last you for the duration of your volunteer experience. You should • Maintain a positive attitude and sense of humor. have this medicine in its own “official” medicine bottle and pack it in your carry-on luggage. You must inform staff • Practice stress-reduction habits (take time alone, write in immediately if something should happen to your medication your journal, read a book, listen to music). (such as losing it) so that all efforts can be made to remedy the situation. • Know that anything you are feeling is okay, being in a new setting can bring issues to the surface; this is normal. • Visitors to Uganda are at risk for gastrointestinal illnesses. Careful attention to the choice of food and beverages helps reduce this risk. Be very careful if you decide to eat food from street stands or vendors at bus stops. The cooks at the guesthouse and clinic take the appropriate precautions STAFF SUPPORT when preparing food. Traveler’s diarrhea (liquid diarrhea If you are not feeling well - tell us! FIMRC staff are there to WITHOUT blood or associated fever) can be treated with assist with issues that affect your health, safety, and well- ciproflaxin (500mg) twice a day for up to three days; if you being during the course of your volunteer experience. Please are experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms, please notify a keep FIMRC staff informed of any situations. staff member so we can help you avoid complications.

MEDICAL HISTORY It is imperative that you are as honest as possible in the medical history section of your volunteer profile. Indicating past or present illnesses does not automatically disqualify you from volunteering, rather it ensures we are able to accommodate any special needs you may have during your stay.

MEDICAL CARE

If you require medical attention while in Uganda, you can be seen by a clinical officer at the FIMRC clinic. If emergency care is required, you will be transported to Mbale Regional Hospital or Kampala International Hospital.

14 15 EXCURSIONS & DEPARTURE

Your volunteer experience has ended and you are just about to head home or onto your next adventure! The day and time of your flight will change how and when you leave us and head on to the Entebbe Airport. See below for more details on excursion options, Entebbe lodging, and more.

DEPARTURE The time of your flight will determine when you leave our site. If your flight departure time is before 3PM, you will leave Project Bududa the night before your flight to Entebbe. You can spend this time enjoying Entebbe, buying last minute souvenirs, and soaking up the last bits of Ugandan life and food. When the time finally comes to head to the airport, we will send a car to pick you up at the hotel 3 hours before your flight to allow plenty of time at the airport. We hope to see you soon!

If your flight departure time is after 3PM, you will leave Project Bududa at 6AM the morning of your flight.

EXCURSIONS While we highly value all of the great work volunteers do in the field with FIMRC staff and community members, we recognize your important opportunity to explore Uganda. Our site staff will be able to assist you in planning activities, and for most of your free weekends, we will schedule the most popular excursion options for you prior to your arrival (Sipi Falls, Jinja with or without rafting, hiking, and cultural experiences like making coffee or cooking with our friends in the community). Our on-site staff will assist you in setting up activities and transport.

Please note, excursions and the necessary transport are not included in your FIMRC trip fee. Please visit the Pre-departure Information page to download a copy of the FIMRC Excursion Guide.

ENTEBBE Most volunteers spend at least one night in Entebbe. This is dependent upon your flight arrival and dpearture times. During nights spent in Entebee, FIMRC staff will take care of all hotel arrangements for you. Generally, volunteers stay at our partner hotel, Entebbe Backpackers. Entebbe Backpackers is located in the safest and secure Entebbe neighborhood with paved roads and solar night time lighting and is only 5 Kilometers from Entebbe International Airport. Hotel accommodations are included in your FIMRC fee.

More information can be found at http:// entebbebackpackers.com.

16 FAQs

Below, we’ve prepared a list of common questions that we receive to help you further prepare for your volunteer experience in Uganda. After reading the FAQs, if you still have questions, send us an email at [email protected]. We are always happy to help!

What if I miss my flight or am delayed during travel? Am I required to wear scrubs in the clinic?

Please contact the FOM immediately. Please have the FOM’s Volunteers are not required to wear medical scrubs in the contact information on hand. You can also call FIMRC’s 24/7 clinic, though you certainly can if you wish! At the clinic, the line at 888.211.8575 ext. 3. staff usually dressed in button-down shirts, nice slacks and skirts, or scrubs.

Will I have a toilet and shower? Can I drink the tap water?

There is a pit latrine at the guesthouse as well as at the No. Volunteers should not drink any tap water in Uganda. clinic. There is an enclosed bathing shelter for bucket baths We recommend bringing a water bottle to fill up with safe at the guesthouse. Water can be boiled for warm showers. drinking water that is provided at the guesthouse.

How do I get to and from the clinic? Can I bring donations for the clinic?

Each morning and afternoon you walk to and from the clinic. Of course! Please see the Pre-departure Information page for It is a 30 minute walk from the guesthouse and there are a list of the most top needed items at the clinic. gorgeous views along the way.

Will there be other volunteers in Uganda at the same Will I have internet access? time as me? There is no wifi in Bududa District. Please do not purchase If you are traveling independently, there is a great chance a calling card before your departure, as it may not be that there will be other volunteers on-site as well. If compatible with all phones outside the U.S. Phone cards are you would like to connect with other volunteers prior to easily purchased after arrival in Uganda and are relatively travel, simply email [email protected]. If there are other inexpensive to use. volunteers enrolled for your same dates, we are happy to place you in touch!

16 17 STAY INVOLVED

You’ve traveled to Project Bududa and seen our work first hand, now what? Whether your are looking to join a university chapter, intersted in donating towards on-site projects, or simply want to keep in touch, there are many ways to stay involved with FIMRC after your volunteer experience. A few of our alumni resources are below.

ALUMNI PROGRAM ADOPT-A-PROJECT

All volunteers are invited to join over 4,000 volunteers in the Our Adopt-a-Project program is a way for FIMRC Alumni Program! In 2015, we began our Alumni Program volunteers to stay connected to our project sites to connect past volunteers with one another and with staff at our through fundraising for special on-site initiatives! project sites in hopes that you will continue to promote our mission Click below to access this year’s current projects in your own community. By joining the Alumni Program, you will and to see how you can continue to contribute to gain access to exclusive updates, travel discounts, and more! Visit the success of Project Bududa, Uganda! www.fimrc.org/alumnifor more information.

CHAPTERSHIP PROGRAM

A chapter is made up of individuals committed to serving as FIMRC’s voice in their community. FIMRC chapters play a number of vital roles including raising funds for special medical projects, coordinating volunteer groups to travel to our clinic sites, and providing service in their own communities. If you want to know if your university or community has a FIMRC chapter or if you’re interested in starting one, e-mail [email protected].

CONNECT WITH US!

www.facebook.com/officialfimrcpage username: fimrc www.instagram.com/fimrc

Exclusive Facebook Page for Uganda Alumni www.facebook.com/fimrcuganda/ www.vimeo.com/fimrc www.twitter.com/fimrc

18 Have a wonderful trip!

Foundation for International Medical Relief of Children www.fimrc.org 1518 Walnut Street Suite 1504 Philadelphia, PA 19102 888.211.8575 ext. 1

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