I hear the radio ads for FoodforOrphans incessantly on right wing radio. My question is "What happened to Kin"" the boy whose story is the focus of the ads? Is he out of the garbage pile now or is he still there and serving as a hook for donations? It also puts the hair up on the back of my neck when I go to the website and there is very little actual info.. it's all about donate, donate donate. Where is the link to the financials? Where is the disclosure of all the paid employees and their relationship to Mr. VanDyke? And if this is a "Christian" group, exactly what flavor or Christian? That's a very broad spectrum. All this would be information that I would expect a reputable charity to proactively provide.
As a volunteer I attended a recent food packing event in Bethalto. The concept of the event is inspiring but the lack of organization and purpose and details from this non profit were questionable. Compared to other like organizations, Stophungernow and Worldfoodday, and their events I have attended it was better funded, organized and meaningful.
Renee61, can you please state why you said that the majority of the funds go to the leader? Is their a website where you found this out. The stats online that I saw, show that the administration accounts for 12%. My husband and I volunteered in IL last September, and were so happy to have been a part of the process. We were able to have a taste of the food and that we were packing, and it was very good! I was pleased that we were not only sending nutritious food, but that it tasted good too! We're looking forward to helping again in May.
Food for Orphans is a horrible organization. The CEO is a poor leader and is more worried about his pay than feeding orphan kids. If you look at the last couple years of the organization 990 reports on guidestar they has used all their funds to pay the CEO. Pass reviews on this site are from family members (renee60 is his wife) and employees that are trying to keep there jobs. If you want to support orphans support them through VisionTrust International.
I have had the privilege of seeing the children receive the food, eat regularly, and change from feverish, lethargic children to high energy, shiny hair, bright eyes and lots of smiles when I return in a few months. The food shipped from the food packing events is very nutritious and they like it! In countries where shipping is not possible, the funds sent for food have made a tremendous difference as FFO coaches them on feeding a balanced meal with locally available foods. One of the side benefits is to the widows who are asked to cook the daily hot meal because they get to eat themselves and serve others which brings joy to them on both levels. Please consider a regular monthly donation and joining FFO on a team to serve the children directly. It is life changing.
We had a great experience that our kids were able to participate in. They are ages 6 to 15 and there was something for all of them to do. It was a blessing to be able to show them the need of hungry children and that we could help even if only in a small way.
A wonderful experience -- such a simple way to make a difference in the lives of hungry children. Organized like clock-work, not a minute wasted. A perfect idea for a Youth Group service project; if an event comes to your area, be sure to get the teens you know involved. Hope we have another chance to do this again!
We had a wonderful experience. Invited the entire soccer team to join us (most of which were not Christians) and they too had a wonderful time. It was great to have the opportunity to serve and give them an exposure to what it means to live a selfless life. Thank you for organizing this amazing event. We hope to do it again next year!
Food for Orphans did a fantastic job organizing and preparing the warehouse for this food packaging project. The instructions were clear, the people were friendly, the volunteers were amazing and fun to work with including children. I hope to get the opportunity to help this organization again!
I was impressed with the organization and flow of the entire process. Great event for the whole family to participate and just a truly worthwhile cause. Thank you for letting us be a part of it!
The packaging was very organized and well attended. The system went smoothly and we were instructed what to do before hand which was helpful. Everyone was polite and very excited to be there.
I want to thank Gary VanDyke & this organization for all it does to truly help feed orphans. Every update I receive along with prayer requests make me even more aware of the tremendous need to help starving children worldwide. The way in which the information is given completely inspires me to want to be a part of this, knowing that God is using Food For Orphans in a powerful way. My goal is to become a regular donor starting immediately. Thank you for taking seriously the commands that Jesus so clearly requested of his followers! One of which is, "If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth." 1 John 3:17-18
Food for Orphans is one of the most cost-efficient ministries dollar for dollar - and allows you to participate in the packing of food for starving kids around the world. FFO not only arranges the details for food-packing, but connects the food with a missions organization in the field to ensure it gets delivered to the people who need it most. Top notch organization and I hope they expand!
Food for Orphans 12/24/2014
As the President and CEO of Food for Orphans, I am really sorry that you feel that way. I have reason to believe that this reviewer is a disgruntled ex-employee. But since they used a made-up name, I cannot confirm that. However, if you are willing, I am available to discuss your concerns.