Packing with a Purpose: A Day of Service with Hope Fleet and Grace Church
We recently had the joy of attending a packing party hosted by Hope Fleet and Grace Church in Sarasota, Florida. It was a hands-on day of service, and our whole family got involved. Together, we organized hygiene items, assisted church members in packing kits, ran quality control, placed stickers on the boxes, and even helped load the finished kits into a van. These kits will soon be transported by private boat to Hope Fleet’s partners in the islands—ultimately reaching those who need them most.
The girls were real troopers, waking up early and jumping right in to serve in many different ways. Watching them contribute with such cheerful hearts was a proud parenting moment.
What’s in the Box?
Hygiene kits are a simple yet powerful way for churches and individuals to engage in missions work—right from home. Each kit includes full-size shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, toothpaste, a comb, and a washcloth. But perhaps the most meaningful addition is a handwritten letter of encouragement from the person who packed it. Every kit is labeled with a number so the packer can be notified when and where their kit is delivered. Whether a community is recovering from a natural disaster or simply lacks access to basic hygiene resources, receiving one of these kits sends a clear message: you are seen, valued, and loved.
We witnessed the impact of these kits firsthand during our recent trip to Abaco. One evening, while serving at a youth event in a local church, hygiene kits were handed out to the students. The gratitude on their faces and the way they clutched the kits to their chests said everything. These were not just hygiene items—they were reminders of dignity and care in a time of great need.
This particular packing party was extra special because it brought new friendships into our lives. We finally got to meet Blake and Lisa, a couple we had been connecting with for months through a mutual ministry friend. They were visiting Florida—just an hour from the event—and made the trip to serve alongside us in person. What a blessing it was! Like us, they’re in a season of transition, preparing to live full-time in their camper while pursuing ministry on the road. They aren’t exactly sure where God is leading them next, but their willingness to say “yes” is inspiring. We were honored to share our journey, introduce them to some of the opportunities we’ve experienced, and connect them with Hope Fleet. It felt like one of those divine appointments only God could orchestrate.
Get Involved
If you, your family, or your church are looking for a practical and impactful way to serve, consider packing a hygiene kit. It’s a simple act that creates real change. You can learn more and get involved by visiting Hope Fleet’s website.
We always need more kits. Would you consider packing one?
