Short Term Teams
We are privileged to host many short term teams each year. Those teams come to s-erve in many areas including construction, tutoring, sports ministry, and spending time with our children’s home kids just to name a few. This page is meant to give information to teams who are planning on coming to visit us. If that’s you, then please, feel free to read below to see how you can prepare for your trip to Kids International Ministries!
MONEY (TOP)
How to get team funds to us
Our facilities aren’t free to operate, so we ask our guests to pay for their rooms and food. Also, sometimes teams like to bring some extra funds to help pay for projects that they take part in. In order to transfer the funds in the most efficient way possible, we ask that you follow the directions below that fit your location.
- Coming from America. If you know you’re coming a while in advance, please have money to our headquarters in Kansas no later than the 20th of the month preceding your trip. That will allow time for the money to be transferred to our account in the Philippines. If that doesn’t work for you, then bring cash or a check made out to “New Faith Family Children’s Home.”
- Coming from Australia. Deposit funds to the Westpac New Faith Family Children’s Home account two weeks prior to arrival, or bring cash or check made out to “New Faith Family Children’s Home.”
- Coming from Asia/Europe/Africa/South America. When you come, bring cash or check made out to “New Faith Family Children’s Home.”
Cash or Credit?
There are many places here where you can use your credit/debit card to make purchases. Most of the major restaurants and stores take credit, but if you’re going to get things from smaller places and markets, you’ll need cash. Local transportation and tips are always paid in cash. In general, it’s a good idea to have at least a little cash on your person.
Exchanging Money
There are a few ways to exchange money. When exchanging money from USD to PHP (Philippine Peso) or visa versa, expect to pay at least 1% in conversion fees. Exchange rates will differ slightly between different exchange places, but unless you’re exchanging large amounts, it won’t make much of a difference. Here are some of the options for exchanging cash. - At the airport.
Just after you go through customs, you’ll have a chance to exchange cash to PHP. The rate here is ok. It might be a good idea to get some pesos here to get you through the first day or so.
- At an exchange shop.
This is probably where you’ll get the best rate. There is an exchange shop about 2 miles from the ministry center, and we’d be glad to get you there.
- At the bank.
We can help make this happen.
Withdrawing Money/ATM
There are many ATMs at nearby banks that you can withdraw money from your foreign bank account. Just know that you will be charged the conversion fee, plus an ATM fee of about $5 for each foreign transaction.
- Schwab Bank Account. As an option to avoid ATM fees, you can start an account at Schwab bank before you come. You will pay any ATM fees initially, but Schwab bank will reimburse any and all ATM fees. This is a good option if you are planning on doing all of your exchanging through ATM withdrawals.
Clothing & Weather
There are basically two seasons in the Philippines: hot and rainy. Sometimes it’s both. Either way, it’s going to be hot and humid when you come. Unless you’re used to hot weather, plan on bringing light clothing, i.e. shorts and t-shirts. Unless you’re planning on being at our Malaybalay location during December-January, you probably won’t need anything long sleeved. Sandals or flip-flops are a shoe of choice here, but if you’re planning on doing construction, make sure you have shoes you can work in. As another great ministry you can take part in, it would be great if you bring clothes you can plan on leaving for people in the community!
We do ask that our female guests dress modestly, not in clothing that is too revealing. This is especially important if you plan on volunteering in the school or tutoring. Also, try to bring whatever feminine products you need from the states as they are generally not as accessible here.
Other things to think about packing are sunscreen and bugspray.
Laundry
We have washing machines and dryers available for guest use. If you wish, our workers can do your laundry for you, for a tip!
Bringing or Buying to Bless
It’s always a great idea to come with the intent to bless others. You may wish to bring some things with you or buy them here in order to do this. Coming from outside of the Philippines, chances are you get a baggage allowance of two suitcases. We ask that you consider packing just one for yourself and filling the other with:
- Sports equipment: basketballs, nets, soccer balls, cones, etc.
- Tennis/Athletic shoes for girls and boys, ages 1-16
- Girls and boys underwear, ages 1-16
- Girls and boys swimwear, ages 1-16
- Office/School supplies (email us to ask about current big item needs)
- Xerox machine/copier – for school needs
- Dental equipment/supplies: drills, toothbrushes, toothpaste, solutions, x-ray machine, etc. Anything to help keep our dental clinic up and running.
- Kitchen items (can be used, but need to be good quality): heavy duty pots/pans, knives, utensils, serving spoons, silverware, mixers, beaters, hotpads, etc.
- Medicine/Vitamins: practical items like bandaids, gauze, Neosporin, children’s vitamins/medicine, etc.
The list could go on, and if you have questions about specific items, feel free to email Jeff (jefflong@kidsim.org). No need to go out and buy all new stuff either, just empty out the things in your closet you aren’t using anyway! It’s a great way to bless the orphanage, the community school, and the community at large.
AT THE AIRPORT (TOP)
There are three different terminals/airports in Manila, and the airline you arrive on will determine which one you arrive on. Each has a different exiting strategy, so we will be in contact with your leaders via email as to what you are to do. If you find you are going to be delayed at any point in the travel process and can access a phone or email, please contact us, so we can delay our pickup accordingly.
Arriving in the Philippines
- While on the plane. Fill out the arrival card with this information:
- #3 Bird of Paradise, Valley Golf Road, Cainta (city), Rizal (province)
- Telephone – 658-4820
- Depart plane.
- Pass through Immigration. If you have any team members that are 14 and under and are not with their parent (unaccompanied minors), their passports will be held at Immigration and an $80 USD tax will need to be paid.
- Pick up luggage.
- Hand in Customs form. Just put “nothing to declare” on your forms.
- Exchanging Money. See MONEY section above.
- Pickup Location, our phone numbers. Pickup location will vary depending on what terminal you will fly into. When you get through customs, we ask that you borrow a kind Filipino’s cell phone and give us a call or text to know you’re on your way. Contact numbers are below.
- Russell Phillips 0949-783-0347 rtphillips@gmail.com
- Jeff Long 0908-951-4068 jefflong@kidsim.org
- Colene Long 0918-530-1299 colenelong@hotmail.com
- Josie Long 0920-569-5782 josielong2442@gmail.com
Departing the country
- Exit Tax. As a non-negotiable part of your budget, plan on having 750 pesos (about $18 USD) per person set aside as there is a tax for exiting the country that you will pay on departure in the airport.
- Itineraries. Have a printed copy of each person’s itinerary in hand when you return to the airport.
TRANSPORTATION WHILE HERE (TOP)
While here, we will take care of all of your transportation needs for projects and mission-related items. We’ll also try to get you to some shopping, etc., but we do have a limited number of vehicles. There are many good, inexpensive modes of public transportation.
- Trike. Basically a motorcycle with a sidecar, a trike can get you from the KIM headquarters to the entrance of Valley Golf road, a mile away, for 8 pesos a person. From there, you can get a taxi, jeepney, or bus.
- Taxi. A good, air-conditioned, and fairly inexpensive method of travel.
- Jeepney/FX. A jeepney is a colorful, elongated jeep with center facing bench seats in the back. Each jeepney has a yellow sign on it’s side indicating it’s specific route (like a bus). Jeepney rides are very cheap, about 7-10 pesos (25 cents) and can get you to the mall, Starbucks, or all the way to Manila if you know the routes. Riding a jeepney is a good cultural experience, and many visitors choose to ride one just for fun. Another route-based mode of transportation is an FX. Basically, it’s an SUV with air-condition that costs a little more per person, but takes the same routes as a jeepney.
- Bus. There are a few buses on routes that can get you to Manila for about 25 pesos per person. They pass by the entrance to Valley Golf road, about a mile from KIM headquarters, every 15 minutes or so. Also, for a large group of 25 or more, a bus can be rented for a day trip, etc.
- Driving/KIM Vehicle. We do our best to get you places with our vehicles as a priority. We employ drivers to take you places, but if they are not available, we may let a leader of your team drive.
SAFETY (TOP)
Safety is an important consideration when travelling to any foreign country. Below are some answers to common questions about safety in the Philippines. If you have more questions, feel free to contact us. We want to make sure you feel safe before you leave and while you’re here.
Should I be concerned about:
- Malaria or other diseases? The CDC recommends preventative steps be taken for Malaria. In our personal experience, most KIM missionaries have not been vaccinated, and have had no problems with it. However, if you feel it necessary or would not like to chance it, feel free to talk to your doctor about preventative steps.
- Cultural Differences? You will not need to worry about being in uncomfortable settings. As a general rule, it’s good to go places in pairs or more, just to help you feel more secure.
- Theft? You will be serving in an impoverished country. There is always a temptation for needy people here to steal to survive. Never flash large amounts of money in the open, especially after exchanging or withdrawing from an ATM. We have had instances of camera/property theft while team members were riding on jeepneys or out at fast food restaurants. Always make sure you have your cameras, purses, wallets, etc. in sight and on your person. While staying at the YMC, be sure not to leave your personal belongings out in the open. We know and trust many people around the facility, but there are many people coming in and out each day, and 100% accountability is not always possible.
- Drinking the water? See section on FOOD and WATER below.
FOOD & WATER (TOP)
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided for teams at the YMC each day, and costs are covered by the room fees. However, there are other options for meals, as detailed below.
Restaurants/Ordering Out
There is a plethora of options for eating out here. There are western chain restaurants such as TGI Friday’s, Chili’s, Pizza Hut, McDonalds, Shakey’s Pizza, Dairy Queen, and others. Also, there are many smaller Filipino restaurants all over. Most have an option of delivery if you want that. We have a list of restaurants and the delivery numbers at the YMC for your use.
Water in the YMC & Elsewhere
As a general rule, it isn’t safe to drink water out of a tap here. However, it is perfectly safe to drink water at the YMC because we filter our water, so it’s a good idea to fill up a water bottle at the YMC and take it with you if you plan on leaving. It’s ok to drink water in restaurants, or they may offer you bottled water. The number one way of staying healthy is to stay hydrated, so make sure you’re drinking a lot of water while here.
YMC & GUEST HOUSE (TOP)
The YunJin Lyso Ministry Center is our base of operations. It is right on the edge of the community where you will be serving, and it is where you will be staying while visiting us in Manila. All of your meals will be provided here. We want your stay here to be as smooth and accommodated as possible. Read below about some of the important things to know about where you’re staying. If you have any questions about things not mentioned, please feel free to email us and ask.
Electricity 220/110
Electricity in the Philippines is 220V. In the US it is 110V. This can cause a problem if you plug a 110V appliance into a 220V outlet- it will fry your appliance! In the YMC, we have both 220V and 110V outlets. Most outlets are labeled, but PLEASE ASK US BEFORE PLUGGING ANYTHING IN! We will be glad to help.
Internet/Computers
There is free wifi internet in both halves of the YMC. Please see white board in kitchen for the password. Also, we have a computer and printer available for use. We expect you to use good judgment when accessing websites unattended, and show respect to others who would like to use the computer.
Service Opportunities
There are many opportunities for servant-hearted guests to help. Our kitchen ladies always appreciate help washing dishes, filling the water containers, tidying up, etc. The possibilities are endless, and we will go over more of these opportunities when you arrive.
Souvenirs/Gifts at YMC
As a way of providing for families in the community, and our workers, we have a growing supply of t-shirts, souvenirs, and gifts hand-crafted by people from our community for sale at the YMC. See Colene or Josie Long with payments.
CHURCHES (TOP)
There are many opportunities for English speaking church services. Right next door to the YMC is the Jesus Christ Church in the Valley (JCCV), a church we have partnered with. They have an 8am service, and our children’s home kids go there. Another local church we partner with is the Tagupay Evangelical Christian Baptist Church located in our own Cuatro Community Center. They offer Tagalog services. Further into Manila, there are many larger churches with more contemporary worship styles. When you come, we can discuss the opportunities in more depth.
SHOPPING (TOP)
It’s nice to take a break from working every once in a while and get out to do some shopping for gifts, etc. There are many options for shopping- below are the two big ones.
Markets
There are many small markets around, and also some larger ones. You can haggle prices at markets, the prices are usually cheaper than at malls and larger stores. One large market that our guests enjoy visiting is Greenhills. It’s a large indoor market with many vendors selling purses/bags, shoes, clothes, electronics, etc.
Malls
There are many malls within a 10 mile radius of our ministry center. SM Taytay is right down the road and has restaurants, a movie theater, and many shopping stores.
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