Robbi Ann Swanson and Darlene Deusa. Courtesy photo
Keri Lohse playing with children in Ghana. Courtesy photo
Robbi Ann Swanson holding a baby in Ghana. Courtesy photo
Stephanie Wickham holding a baby in Ghana. Courtesy photo
Courtesy photo
Courtesy photo
JD Wickham and his wife, Stephanie, both Parkview church members, in Palm Coast, began the Goals for Life Project, which is a two-step approach ministry.
The first step is to utilize the sport of soccer, and the second step is to provide some education to them.
Parkview Church of Palm Coast just recently completed a mission to Ghana of about 11 volunteers. They left for Ghana Thursday, June 4, and returned Thursday, June 18.
“In these remote regions, hopefully we’re giving them an opportunity to excel in their sport, but also to take those regions, bring them into a more developed area, and then we provide them with some education,” Wickham said.
Stephanie works tirelessly to ensure medication and medical supplies are delivered and available to all the residents of Ghana. In addition, there are some clinics that have not been well maintained. The Wickhams evaluate whether new roofing, lighting, new fans are needed.
“Then, we also have medicine that’s been delivered to these remote clinics, and our agents help give to customers or patients at need at a wholesale cost, so they can actually afford to have and not receive it anywhere else,” Wickham said.
The group’s presence is so welcomed and appreciated and “something people are requesting to come back yearly.”
When Wickham is back at his home in Palm Coast, he utilizes his team of employees in Ghana to oversee daily tasks.
Speaking of the rewarding journey he has embarked on, Wickham said, “When they saw the team and their heart and passion, and ability to come into these communities, my agents have continued to grow the ministry over there.”
Wickham’s team also consists of a retired doctor and lactation specialist to assist the Ghana community, especially new mothers. They also provide an eye clinic.
“We go to these places and show the love of Christ and into regions that normally don’t allow people in; they invite us, because of the benefits that they receive,” Wickham said.
During the trip, 350 pairs of reading glasses, and seven hospital beds were distributed. Five clinics were rebuilt, and lots of baby formula was given to new mothers.
