Sometimes help starts in a very practical way: a full truck, people rolling up their sleeves, and items being given a second life where they are really needed. That is exactly what happened with the recent shipment of beds, mattresses, wheelchairs, and medical aids that are on their way to Bosnia via the Pro Plan Foundation.

A truck full of relief supplies

The shipment was picked up in Heerlen and then unloaded and sorted. Some of the supplies were set aside: these are destined for Bosnia. They consist of practical and immediately usable materials such as:

• Beds
• Mattresses
• Wheelchairs
• Toilet chairs
• A suction device

These are not luxury items, but basic necessities that are desperately needed in many healthcare institutions and in patients’ homes. These items make the difference between minimal care and decent living conditions.

Years of dedication to Bosnia

During an interview, the volunteers of the Pro Plan Foundation explained that they have been actively transporting aid to Bosnia for approximately 25 years. The situation there is constantly changing. Border regulations can change, and import procedures often require extensive preparation.

Therefore, it is important that everything is properly arranged in advance. Currently, they are collaborating with local contacts to ensure the goods can enter the country without any problems. This prevents transport from getting stuck at the border due to missing documents.

Collaboration and Commitment

The campaign is made possible in part by dedicated individuals like Salah Said, who actively supports the transport and coordination. The Rotary Club of Hengelo is also involved, including through its secretary, John, who helped disseminate information about this campaign.

The volunteers express their immense gratitude. Without donations and collaboration, these kinds of transports simply wouldn’t be possible.

Why this aid is so necessary

According to those involved, the government in Bosnia is abandoning many healthcare institutions. Materials are often old, worn out, or simply unavailable. A shipment of mattresses and wheelchairs therefore immediately means better conditions for people who depend on care.

The shipment is scheduled to arrive around April. Everything has already been organized: from collection to transport.

Small actions, big difference

What this campaign shows is that aid doesn’t always have to be large-scale or complicated. Sometimes it starts with items that are no longer needed here, but will remain valuable elsewhere for years to come. By working together, both locally and internationally, a chain of aid is created that truly makes an impact.

A truck full of mattresses and wheelchairs may seem like a small gesture. For the people who will soon use them, it makes a world of difference.