Support / The Story of 1,100 Windup Radios
In addition to broadcasting radio programs, WOH has distributed windup radios to people in some of the neediest commununities in the world. This campaign has been a great success.
As Words of Hope broadcasts Bible-based radio programs around the world, we are working with our indigenous partners to extend radio access to eager listeners who lack electricity. In 2009 more than 1,100 self-powered windup radios were distributed to listening areas where they’re needed most. The radios were provided through the generous support of Sunday Schools, Vacation Bible Schools, and various special offerings. They can be self-powered without batteries by winding an attached crank connected to an internal magneto. The radios also feature a bright LED flashlight as well as the capacity for charging a mobile phone. (Many listeners who own cellular phones dwell in homes that lack electricity.)
Words of Hope distributed radios to needy listeners in Sudan, Uganda, Ethiopia, Kenya, India, Bhutan, and Niger. Many people are clamoring for the radios; demand far exceeds supply. The radios feature clear shortwave, AM, and FM reception. Their phone-charging capabilities have proven especially beneficial for listeners who had previously found it necessary to travel some distance to pay for recharging services. Costs including distribution average $40 per radio. We recently received an e-mail from a grateful radio recipient who is now a student in Khartoum, Sudan: “Thanks so much the wind-up radio! I really appreciate it and the way your Nuer broadcasts are enabling people to better understand the words of God. Now I can constantly listen to your Nuer broadcasts. I would once again urge you to continue doing so and the almighty God will support you and your work.” Our Nigerien partner recently wrote: “Thanks to the donors of these radios. The radio is and remains the best means of evangelism in Niger.”
If you would like to help cover the cost of a windup radio and its distribution, visit our support page and donate to this exciting part of our ministry.
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