The aims of Direct Aid

Direct Aid Inc   was started in 2003 by Pamela Mercier who had spent the past 15 years working with charity organisation World Vision. Through her involvement, Pam developed an understanding of the perils associated with poverty, including the early deaths of many innocent children and the feelings of helplessness from those who had lost loved ones.

Pam felt that if she could use her experience to support individuals who were voluntarily working or donating to improve conditions for the poorest in these societies, it would be the most beneficial use of time and money. Direct Aid was soon formed to fulfil these purposes. 

Direct Aid now operates as a registered association with a board and 15 members, all of whom work on a voluntary basis.  Given the nature of its structure, Direct Aid has no large overheads or salaries.  They only work with people they trust and their aim is to ensure that at least 95% of all funds reach those in need.  Direct Aid is pleased to report that over the past 3 years, 100% of all donations and fundraising has been sent to the delegated charity.

Direct Aid’s most recent endeavour involved supporting an orphanage in Bali.  Through their efforts, they were able to raise $36,000 for food and education.  They also recently provided support to a volunteer in Cambodia and were able to provide 200 wells and water pumps. Both these campaigns where run wholly by volunteers.

We would be happy to hear from anyone interested in supporting  the work of Direct Aid or would like more information.

The Gonawambo in Malawi project was brought to Direct Aid’s attention by a local Malawian man who saw the dire state of disease and poverty affecting the children in the area.  He also personally knew the group of people who were trying to feed and educate the many aids orphans. The group are all volunteers (one of whom is a retired school teacher, and another an accountant). 

Over the past12 months Direct Aid has been working to make a difference to the Gonawambo Aids Orphans through the provision of food and seeds to form crops. It recently purchased a cow for manure for the vegetable garden and hope to be able to purchase more live stock so the locals can become self-reliant.

A feeding shelter had been constructed, however, the volunteers are struggling to feed the 560 orphans a simple maize meal once a day.  In addition, while a structure has been formed for children to be schooled, it is currently bare.  There is no educational equipment, playing items, or sporting goods.  This issue is high on the agenda because without any education these children have a grim future. 

 Funds raised will be used to purchase food and also provide school equipment.