Frequently Asked Questions - Miscellaneous

Miscellaneous

TOILETS

The toilets in Ukraine don't always look like they do in the US. When a member of SCM says, “it is best to go now,” trust them. Often the public toilets do not have toilet paper, so make sure you always keep a small amount on your body.

TOILET PAPER

Bring your own toilet paper to be safe.

ANTI-BACTERIAL LOTION

Even when there's hot water in public restrooms there may not be any soap. Carrying a small bottle of purell would be very beneficial for you. They also make good gifts for SCM employees.

FEMALE HYGENE

Please bring your choice of feminine hygiene products. The product choices are limited in Ukraine.

STOMACH/DIGESTIVE LIQUIDS

Pack stomach/laxative/diarrhea medication , just in case.

WATER

Each team will be provided with large amount of bottled water and other refreshments. Boiled water is safe to drink if visiting a local café or person’s home. It is also safe to brush your teeth, bathe, and wash with normal tap water, just don’t drink normal tap water.

COFFEE/TEA

The coffee is likely to be instant. Hot tea is more common. Bringing bags of a favorite tea to share would be a good thing.

QUANTITY OF FOOD

If a Ukrainian person is preparing food for you, there may be an abundance of food. They're sacrificing to make sure you have plenty to eat. So please eat the food they present to you. Don’t complain because it looks different than how you'd prepare it at home. Save all your comments about the food unless it's 100% positive.

TYPES OF FOOD

The food may be prepared differently, and may look different, than what you're accustomed to in the US. However, there is nothing unusual or exotic in their food preparation. Ukrainians eat meats such as pork, chicken, and beef. Vegetables include cucumbers, cabbage, beets, onions, garlic. Starch foods include potatoes, rice, bread. Fruits are tomatoes, grapes, apples, pears, and bananas.

SNACKS

Peanut butter and popcorn are in short supply. If you require these items, please bring your own. Peanut butter is also a good gift to give Ukrainians. If you're accustomed to eating/snacking throughout the day, consider bringing energy or granola bars to supplement your meals.

PHOTOS FROM HOME
Bring pictures. They'd like to see pictures of your family; your church; your house;your car; where you work; etc. Think about bringing pictures that give an idea of what your every day life in America looks like.

Do you need for us to order children’s Bibles and deliver them to Ukraine?

We can purchase children’s Bibles in Ukraine for approximately $5 per Bible, and get regular New Testaments for approximately $3 or less. My recommendation is if you want to purchase Bibles, allow us to do this on your behalf. This will need to be an additional cost above and beyond the cost of the trip.