Frequently Asked Questions

What does it cost?

Mission Trip Prices (Subject to change)

$1,150 per person for the land package to all destinations, including Haiti, Jamaica, Central America and Guyana. Domestic and international airfare is not included.

What does the Land Package Include?

• Ground transportation
• Accommodations (4 nights – double occupancy)
• All meals
• Security
• Tour leader accompanying the group from Florida

What will we do?

All trips are hands-on experiences (painting a house or a school; planting trees or vegetables). We encourage interaction with the local people you will meet on your journey. In addition, most of our trips to Jamaica include house building.

If you are interested in a summer trip, we strongly recommend that you reserve your space at least 90 days prior to the travel date. This will allow us to take advantage of lower airfares during the busy summer season.

Be aware that we sometimes find it necessary to divert our groups to another destination due to unforeseen circumstances. In the event that this occurs, you will be advised as soon as possible. Space on all trips is subject to availability and dates are subject to change. For additional information call us at (800) 568-8124 or email us at: missions@foodforthepoor.com.

What is the Cancellation Policy

A non-refundable $100 deposit is due with your application. The balance of your land package is due 60 days prior to departure, and final payment 30 days prior.

In the rare and unlikely event that Food For The Poor (FFTP) has to cancel a Mission Trip, the total amount paid to FFTP may be refunded (including the deposit). If the cancellation is at the request of the participant or is a result of non-payment by the due date, any deposit or mission trip fees paid by the participant may be applied to another FFTP program to be booked within 12 months from the date the original airfare was ticketed (subject to availability). All flights booked through FFTP are non-refundable and non-transferable.

Do I need a valid U.S. passport?

Yes. If you don’t already have a current U.S. passport, you may obtain one by picking up the forms at certain branches of the U.S. Post Office or go online to http://travel.state.gov/passport

Passports typically take six weeks to process.

Photocopy all important documents and keep them in a hidden place separate from the originals. Leave another copy at home with someone you can easily get in contact with while you are abroad.

Where will we stay?

Accommodations will be at a safe and secure hotel or retreat center. The cost of the trip includes sharing a room. If you prefer a single room, there will be an additional charge.

What kind of transportation is provided?

Throughout your trip, you will travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus, driven by an experienced driver.

What kind of clothing should I bring?

Out of respect for the local people, plan to wear lightweight long pants (capri pants are okay) and shirts with sleeves during the day. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must. The attire is more casual in the evening.

What about my safety?

You will be visiting projects that are supported by Food For The Poor. A representative from our U.S. headquarters will accompany the group. A special in-country coordinator and translator will be responsible for overseeing the trip and keeping abreast of any news that could affect your visit. Our first priority will always be your safety.

What about vaccinations?

Food For The Poor requires all travelers be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. You must provide proof of vaccination. We do not require vaccinations for any other illnesses. We recommend you go to www.cdc.gov for more information. If you have a personal health concern, be sure to check with your own physician.

IMPORTANT NOTICE – MOSQUITO-BORNE DISEASES
You may be aware that mosquito-borne diseases such as Chikungunya, Dengue and Zika have affected Latin America and several countries in the Caribbean and here is what you should know:

• The common symptoms for all of the viruses listed above are fever, rash, joint pain, muscle pain and headache. Other potential symptoms are joint swelling (Chikungunya), nausea, vomiting, and pain behind the eyes (Dengue) and conjunctivitis (Zika). Treatment involves getting plenty of rest, drinking fluids to prevent dehydration, and taking acetaminophen or paracetamol to relieve fever and pain. Do NOT take aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen and naproxen.

ZIKA: the CDC is urging women who are pregnant, and those who may become pregnant, to postpone travel to these countries. To read more about the Zika virus, visit http://www.cdc.gov/zika/index.html.

Is insurance provided?

You are responsible for your own health and accident insurance while traveling overseas. Food For The Poor does NOT provide this coverage. Food For The Poor does provide emergency evacuation for medical, natural disasters and civil unrest.

How much money should I bring?

United States currency is acceptable at most tourist shops, hotels and airports. You will obtain the best rate of exchange by using a Visa/MasterCard for any purchase in the local country you are visiting. You should also bring some cash in small denominations, for any local tipping or small purchases. If you pay in cash, you will receive change in the local currency. Depending on your destination, you may be required to pay a tax in cash upon entry or departure.

Is it okay to bring gifts?

Bringing gifts is optional. We recommend school supplies, hygiene items, clothing, small toys, jump ropes, and soccer balls with pumps. These are just a few suggestions. Anything you bring will be gratefully received!

What if I don’t speak the language?

Your group leader or in-country representative will translate for you. Also, remember that a smile and a hug will transcend all language barriers!

Will there be prayer during the trip?

Prayer and reflection are an important part of the mission experience. During your visits, you may participate in prayers with local people.

Is my mission trip payment tax-deductible?

All our mission trips are hands-on experiences. Additionally, your journey may contain a significant amount of work in service to the poor. This service may be realized in the building of houses, the feeding of the hungry, the care of children and other activities that will bring love and hope to those who desperately need it. The expenses paid to attend your mission trip may be tax-deductible under Internal Revenue Code section 501(c)(3). Please consult your accountant or tax advisor for more information.

For more information contact us at (800) 568-8124 or at missions@foodforthepoor.com