Planning Your Trip
How Long to Stay
Mission to Mississippi Project Dates
From October 16 through February 3, 2008.
We will accommodate whatever your schedule allows and work with you to help plan a rewarding experience. There is no minimum commitment, and most people find a trip of 5-7 days to be very rewarding. Considering the travel time and expense, most volunteers commit to at least 3 nites/ 4 days. The site will be closed Thanksgiving week (11/20 – 11/27) and Christmas (12/24-12/25). Volunteers only will be at the site during Christmas break (12/18 – 1/3/08).
Transportation
Driving
Waveland, MS is located along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, 1500 miles south – southwest of Boston, Ma, approximately 24 hours driving time.
Flying
Gulfport-Biloxi Regional Airport (GPT), located approx 25 miles east of Waveland, is served by several airlines including Delta, Air Tran, Northwest and Continental. Service from Logan is via Atlanta, Memphis or Houston.
New Orleans International Airport (MSY), located approx 60 miles west of Waveland, is served by most major airlines. NB Recommended travel time to the airport from Waveland can run two hours in heavy traffic.
Car Rental
Major car rentals operate from both airports.
Limited taxi service is available between Gulfport and Waveland.
No public transportation is available in Waveland.
Food and Lodging
Meals
Volunteers are responsible for their own breakfast and dinner. Lunch and snacks will be provided at the work sites each day.
Accommodations
Volunteers can choose to stay in the Bay-Waveland area (10 minutes from the work site) or in nearby Gulfport (25 miles via Interstate 10) which offers a larger selection of both hotels and restaurants. Room rates range from $79 - $120 for hotels to $12 - $20 at the local volunteer camps which offer bunk-style housing, shared bathroom facilities and meals. SEE MORE DETAIL
What to Bring
Clothing:
- Casual and Comfortable
- Layering works well on cool-morning days
- Work clothes (jeans, t-shirts, light windbreaker, sweatshirts)
- Work boots or sturdy shoes w/closed toe that provide adequate foot protection
- Rain Gear
- Hat/Bandana
Tools
Tools will be available at the work site. If you have your own tool belt or preferred equipment that can be easily transported (most likely as checked baggage if you are flying down), feel free to bring it with you.
Don’t Forget:
- Current tetanus (within the last 10 years)
- Cell phone and extra batteries
- Work Gloves
- Sunscreen
- Bug Spray with DEET
- Medical Insurance Card
- Patience
