mission / UNY Mission Central HUB
Red Bird Mission
Red Bird Mission was born as an answer to a prayer. Founded in 1921, the Red Bird Mission began in the southeastern corner of Kentucky to provide education and Christian evangelism ministries to residents of that area. It is a poverty-relief organization. The Upper New York Conference has participated in the shoebox mission for several years.
The planning team is looking for drop-off sites across the Conference from Oct. 16 through Nov. 16, 2022. The trip is planned for Nov. 28 with the packing of the trucks on Saturday, Nov. 26. There is a great need this year for shoeboxes filled with personal hygiene supplies, backpacks, new blankets and sheet sets, and diapers If your church wants to be a drop-off site or if have any questions, contact David Alexander at Dalexander4@stny.rr.com or at (607) 743-8955.
Red Bird Mission in 2020
Types of Shoeboxes
In December of 2020, two volunteers from Upper New York drove a 26-foot truck to the mission in Kentucky. They transported over 2800 shoeboxes, more than 100 sheet sets and bedspreads, as well as numerous books, school supplies, and cleaning supplies. This year, the need is even greater. The goal in 2021 is to transport at least 3,600 shoeboxes and other supplies the first week of December.
There are two types of shoeboxes being collected this year. All items should be placed in a clear, plastic shoebox-sized storage container with a locking lid and label with the intended recipient (man, woman, boy, or girl). Please do not wrap the containers.
- Adult shoeboxes: comb or brush, shampoo, hand lotion, deodorant, a toothbrush and toothpaste, chapstick, a full size bar of soap, a washcloth, disposable razors, shaving cream, nail care supplies, socks, a pair of work gloves or mittens, and a winter hat or scarf.
- Children shoeboxes: two or three small toys, two or three items needed for school, a comb or brush, shampoo, hand lotion, a child’s toothbrush and toothpaste, chap stick, a bar of soap, a washcloth, a small flashlight, socks, a pair of mittens, and a winter hat. Christian bookmarks, wristbands, and other spiritual items are also appreciated.