DONATED WHEELCHAIRS MAKE IT FROM FLORIDA TO THE RIO

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When Darlene, Alan, and Joe decided to donate unused wheelchairs from their garage, they had no idea the incredible journey and direct impact their contribution would have on the lives of others. The wheelchairs, which had been gathering dust, were donated to Nautical Neighbors, setting in motion an inspiring chain of events.

The wheelchairs were quickly integrated into a shipment already destined for the Rio Dulce. This remarkable logistical feat involved the coordination of three vehicles and three sailboats, alongside the dedication and effort of numerous volunteers.

Upon arrival, the wheelchairs, along with sports balls and equipment, were delivered to Steve Elliot with Friends of the Rio Dulce. Steve and his team immediately went to work, distributing these essential supplies to those in need, bringing relief and smiles to many.

Nautical Neighbors extends heartfelt thanks to Darlene, Alan, Joe, and all the volunteers who made this journey possible. Their generosity and hard work have made a tangible difference in the lives of many.

Together, we can!

Nautical Neighbors, a renowned organization dedicated to maritime logistics, proudly announces the successful coordination and delivery of essential supplies for Healing Hands Ministries' upcoming mission in March 2024. This remarkable effort underscores Nautical Neighbors' commitment to supporting humanitarian causes through innovative logistical solutions.

In May 2023, Paul Carani of Healing Hands Ministries approached Nautical Neighbors with a unique challenge: delivering much-needed medical supplies, including wheelchairs and IV poles, to Guatemala. Typically, these supplies would be transported by plane, but due to their size, an alternative method was required.

Rising to the challenge, Nautical Neighbors embarked on a search for volunteers and suitable transportation. After several months, the organization connected with Maik Ulmschneider, a dedicated sailor with a regular route from Key West to Isla Mujeres, Mexico. Maik generously agreed to transport the supplies and store them in Isla Mujeres until a vessel could be found to carry them further to Guatemala. Demonstrating exceptional dedication, Maik even committed to sailing the supplies to their final destination himself if no other boat could be secured.

The journey began in December 2023, with Paul Carani driving the supplies from Illinois to Key West, stopping in St. Petersburg to meet with Dee Selby and pick up additional wheelchairs donated by Darlene and Alan. Upon arrival in Key West, the supplies were loaded onto Maik’s sailboat, SV Seefalke, and embarked on their voyage to Isla Mujeres.

Upon arrival in Isla Mujeres, the supplies were stored securely while Maik sought further assistance. Captain Todd Joseph and First Mate Lynn of SV Papillion soon stepped up, agreeing to transport the supplies to Guatemala. They successfully sailed to Catamaran Island, where Steve Elliot and his team of dedicated volunteers unloaded and stored the supplies, ready for the March mission.

This extraordinary logistical feat involved the coordination of multiple vehicles, including a truck, two cars, and two sailboats, alongside the efforts of numerous volunteers and three storage facilities. Nautical Neighbors extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved for their unwavering support and dedication to making this mission possible.

Together, we can!

We're thrilled to share incredible news! Thanks to the generous donations from Mitch Roberts, our corporate sponsor Coastal Lifestyle Magazine, and the remarkable efforts of Captain Miguel Bouillet, we've successfully delivered much-needed school supplies to the amazing kids in Rio Dulce.

With Coastal Lifestyle Magazine's support and Mitch Roberts' generosity, we acquired the supplies and coordinated their delivery. Captain Miguel volunteered to transport them aboard his sailboat "Manatee," embarking on a spirited journey from the United States. After a quick stop in Isla Majeures, the supplies reached Steve Elliott and the Friends of the Rio Dulce, who carried them the rest of the way to the kids.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Coastal Lifestyle Magazine, Mitch Roberts, Captain Miguel Bouillet, and Steve Elliott, as well as all who joined us in this endeavor. Together, we're transforming lives and improving the quality of life for these deserving children.

Join us in celebrating this milestone as we continue our mission to create a brighter future through education and opportunity.

Together, we are making a difference!