Frequently Asked Questions

Question:  On your "Scorecard" page, why is there a difference between the amount collected and the amount sent to Afghanistan?  Answer: While donations come in regularly, we consolidate these and generally send funds to Afghanistan on a weekly basis.  The "collected/sent" display is intended to enable John Gessner to see what amounts will be coming to him in the future, so he can plan for expenditures.  He uses these funds for items that can be purchased on the local economy, such as window panes, floor mats, and blankets, 

Question:  We've collected some items and would like you to pick them up and send them.  How do we do this?  Answer: For those who wish to support this program, we'd like you to do so in one of two manners: (1) send monetary donations to Rock Valley Kiwanis, 1017 E. State Street, Rockford, Il 61104-2101.  These donations enable John Gessner to purchase needed items which are available on the local economy, or (2) collect items which are NOT available in Afghanistan (e.g., school supplies) and mail them directly to John Gessner, 416th ENCOM,  APO AE  09354; let us know what you have sent, and we will post this information to the website.  We do not have a separate fund to support postage for such packages.  When organizing your group to collect supplies, please anticipate postage and incorporate this expense in your collection efforts!

Question:  How long does it take for mail to get from Rockford to Afghanistan?  Answer: It takes approximately 10 days.

Question: What does it cost to send packages by mail to Afghanistan?  Answer:  Although the rate varies somewhat by package weight, it costs approximately $1 per pound to send items by priority mail.  For any package over 1 pound, you must complete a customs declaration form.  These forms are easy to complete and are available at any post office.

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