If you feel so inclined to send mail/packages (and please do :))

My address during training will be:

Jonathan Blanchard, PCT
P.O. Box 29348
Kampala, Uganda


After training, I will establish a mailing address in the community where I’m posted. So, this address will be a temporary one used during my first few months in Uganda. I’ll let you know what my new address will be when I receive it.


A few tips:

• Letters take a minimum of two weeks to arrive in Uganda if sent by airmail, packages even longer.


• Packages sent by surface mail usually take between one and two months.


• Some mail may simply not arrive (this is not a frequent occurrence, but it does happen). Number your letters (so I can tell if one is out of order or missing) and to write “Airmail” and “Par Avion” on your envelopes.


• Print the address very clearly, preferably in all capital letters.


• I've been told that writing something religious (like bible verses or crosses) can also help my mail reach me safely!


• Postcards should be sent in envelopes (or they might end up decorating the wall of the local post office).


• If you want to send me a package, it is best to keep it small and use a padded envelope so it will be treated as a letter and will reach its destination quicker and *possibly* unopened. I will probably have to pay fees on boxes, so stuff everything in a padded envelope if possible!



• Also, be as vague as possible on the customs forms. Instead of DVDs or Books, write “educational material” or “nutritional material” for food products, etc. That way the temptation to look inside may be reduced.


• Valuables should not be sent through the mail. Duty may be charged on food. (this is where creative "claiming" might come in handy...)


• DO NOT SEND MONEY! It will not reach me.

Some helpful sites to determine how to cheaply send me mail:

• USPS international flat rate boxes
• USPS international postage price calculator (non-flat rate)
  

Also, sending a couple ziploc bags in each package could be helpful.

Preparing to Leave

Today's my last day at work. Tomorrow I move out of my apartment. Sunday, August 2 I fly home to Madison to spend time with my family. Tuesday, August 4 I fly to Philadelphia for staging, and Wednesday the 5th I fly to Uganda. I'll immediately start an intensive 10 week training course on language, culture, and technical aspects of my work over the next 27 months. I'll be staying with a host family during training, which will hopefully ease my transition into life in Uganda. After training, I'll be a water and sanitation volunteer - and that's all I know so far. I don't know where I'll be posted, or who I'll be working with, or what exactly I'll be doing, but I'm excited to get to work applying my education and passions in the lives of the Ugandan people. I'll keep everyone updated as often as I can, and I hope you'll be in touch as well. See the sidebar for ways you can contact me. Thanks everyone!