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Fire Ravages Lost Boys Apartment Building
In March 2008, fire ravaged the apartments of nine local Lost Boys, destroying everything they owned, including their rent money and the money they had saved to send back home to their loved ones. Even the clothing of some of the boys caught fire as they ran outside to safety.
Alliance president, Joan Hecht, was the first aid agency representative called to the scene, arriving at 3 AM to assist with medical treatment, media, new housing and the replacement of household items lost in the fire.
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With the support and donations of generous people from around the US, the Alliance was able to replenish the majority of food, furniture and household items that were lost.We were also able to pay the electric and phone bills for each apartment.
Local businesses like CORT Furniture and PGA TOUR donated beautiful couches and love seats for both apartments, along with other items such as tables, computers and televisions.
As always, faithful Alliance volunteers Ray and Maryellen Storms were on hand to pick up and transport much of the donated furniture and household items. Lakewood United Methodist Church provided new mattresses and box springs for each of the young men and Journey Church of Orange Park donated $900. in gift cards along with generous financial contributions from others in our community.
Special thanks to Dignity U Wear and others who donated clothing or money to pay for clothing and rent. And special thanks also goes to the tireless efforts and contributions of Pauline Gerry, Ann Fishman, Lora and Stanley Geftic, Joanelle Mulrain, Wayne Hogan and everyone else who gave of their time and money to help these young men get back on their feet. (All unused items were donated to others in the apartment complex that were also affected by the fire).
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Our First Fundraiser
On September 11th and 12th at the San Marco Theater, we held our first annual fundraiser, featuring the award-winning documentary titled “The Lost Boys of Sudan.” Following the film, Jacksonville-area Lost Boys performed in their native song and dance, followed by an open forum in which members of the audience were able to ask them questions and offer comments. It was a huge success, creating interest and support from within the Jacksonville community. A portion of the proceeds from this event were awarded to the Alliance for the Lost Boys of Sudan to assist in the education and medical needs of the Lost Boys. We look forward to the next of many fundraising events, sponsored by the Alliance for the Lost Boys of Sudan. |
Bul Chol is the second local Lost Boy to find his family and bring them to America (LB) John, Bul Chol, Awek, Akoul (mom) (FL) Abuk Michael |
Alliance for the Lost Boys
teams up with Fresh Ministries
for Diversity Week at Blue Cross
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The Jewish Community Alliance
sponsors a panelled discussion on Dafur, Sudan. ALBS president Joan Hecht is featured as a speaker.
Jacob Angok, Joan Hecht, Stani Benesova,
Mama Rachel, Gabriel Wal, Mary Ellen Storms,
Abraham Ajak, and Kuel Biar |
Praise and Worship from the Lost Boys of Sudan
On August 7, 2004, Jacksonville-area Lost Boys recorded their first CD on Cypress Records at Cypress Recording Studios in Jacksonville Beach.
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