$10 net saves lives
send a net, save a life: www. nothingbutnets.net

Sometimes the simplest idea yields the biggest results. For Nothing But Nets, the simple idea is to provide mosquito nets to families who live in malaria-infested areas of Africa.

"Every $10 donation to Nothing But Nets goes directly towards the purchase, distribution and education about the proper use of an insecticidetreated bed net," said Penny Gregrich, who is organizing several activities to raise money for NBN.

In Africa, malaria is the leading killer of children, and those who survive the disease are often faced with physical and mental impairments, according to Gregrich. Malaria also harms the babies of pregnant women who contract malaria and is one of the leading risk factors for infant mortality in Africa.

Sports Illustrated columnist Rick Reilly started the idea, which was adopted by the United Nations Foundation. The National Basketball Association and the United Methodist Church have joined with several national sports associations and charitable groups to buy nets. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation matches each donation, net for net.

"Bed nets work in two ways. They stop mosquitoes from biting during the night and spreading the disease, and the insecticide on the net kills the mosquitoes when they land, stopping them from flying on to their next victim," Gregrich said.

Jasper First United Methodist Church will host several communitywide activities to raise money for nets, including a volleyball tournament, a basketball tournament, a domino tournament and maybe a ping pong tournament.

"It is the goal of the FUMC to host one planned activity per month to raise funds for Nothing But Nets," according to Gregrich.

The first event is a volleyball tournament for ages 12 and up set for Jan. 20. Gregrich said they hope to get participation from schools, churches and other clubs, or individuals who just love to play can show up and be assigned a team in the day-long event. Cost is $10 per person.

For more information contact FUMC at 384-3557 or Gregich at 382- 9090.