By: Dennis Robillard, Chair, District 7780 Crutches for Africa, Saco Bay Sunset RC
On June 13, Rotarians from 11 clubs across District 7780 joined five members of the local Democratic Republic of the Congo community to load the district’s 15th 40‑foot shipping container bound for Africa. The container, packed at 128 Saco Avenue in Old Orchard Beach, held an impressive 3,142 mobility aids — including 1,162 crutches, 821 walkers, 79 wheelchairs, 788 canes, 149 boots, 37 rollators, and 106 miscellaneous items.
This shipment pushed Crutches 4 Africa’s total distribution past 250,000 units, each one representing a life changed through restored mobility and independence. District 7780 has now collected and shipped more units than any other organization affiliated with Crutches 4 Africa — a remarkable milestone in Rotary service.
Founder Dave Talbot called just before the loading began to share his excitement about reaching this global benchmark. The event also inspired new volunteers, including Past President Bob LePauloue of the Rotary Club of Saco Bay Sunset, who first joined Rotary after helping with a previous Crutches 4 Africa load.
Each item sent changes a life — and together, District 7780 Rotarians have helped change a quarter of a million lives worldwide.
For clubs interested in hosting a speaker or learning how to get involved in this life‑changing project, please contact Dennis Robillard, risc@maine.rr.com. For more information on Crutches 4 Africa, see https://www.Crutches4Africa.org.