With many hands (and a few two-wheeled carts) volunteers loaded the UMCOR kits into the semi trailer for transport to the Midwest Distribution Center in Pawnee, Illinois. Photos from JoAnn Schlimgen, Dakotas Conference.

The Dakotas Conference collected United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) kits valuing $35,617 this fall.  There were 1,502 hygiene kits and 1,349 school kits collected. Recently, Jobbers Moving delivered the kits to Midwest Distribution Center in Pawnee, Illinois.

The Dakotas Conference has been a long-time supporter of UMCOR mission kits. Each fall, several drop-off points are available throughout the conference to collect UMCOR kits.

Early in its existence, UMCOR engaged in shipping material resources to people in need around the world. However, over the years, we have come to recognize that shipping these items may cause harm if the materials displace potential local purchases that would otherwise support the local economy. To this end, UMCOR determined that it would cease international shipment of material assistance. 

UMCOR now distributes only the most-requested UMCOR relief supply kits, assembled in the United States, to places in the United States and its territories where these items are most needed. 

UMCOR Kit volunteer crew at the Dakotas Conference Office, after loading the kits for shipping.

Even within the United States, the collection and distribution of relief kits are becoming challenging. The logistics are costly.  Shipping costs have been growing strongly since the autumn of 2020. With the rise of e-commerce coupled with rising fuel costs, carriers are reporting higher vehicle-maintenance expenses. 

Al Roll, who serves as the Missional Impact Development Coach for the Dakotas Conference, encourages local congregations to look at supporting Dakotas Conference Mission efforts like Bakken Oil Rush Ministry in Watford City, North Dakota, Out in Faith in Williston, North Dakota, Solar Oven Partners, Spirit Lake Ministry Center, and Tree of Life. 

“We have generous hearts and want to make the most impact that we can,” said Roll.