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The Right Tool for the Job
Jean Claude already knew what vehicle would be best suited for the hospital, a Toyota Land Cruiser Series 79 crew cab pick-up truck. This model of truck is engineered to operate in harsh conditions without readily accessible maintenance shops. The truck operates without any computers and lacks things that most modern cars have like a catalytic converter, reducing the number of things that can break or wear out. It has a very capable 4x4 system, powerful diesel engine, robust chassis and a beefy suspension system. The truck can carry six adults comfortably with one ton of cargo in the bed long distances over tough roads routinely and reliably.
This vehicle is popular all across Africa due to its rugged build, making it the only model vehicle that is fairly easy to get parts for in major towns across the DRC. This means they will be able to keep it on the road for years to come. We will also be making some modifications through Toyota adding an extra fuel filter to help cope with poor-quality fuel and canopy for the bed with removable seats. This allows for the truck to carry up to 12 people and keep cargo dry during the rainy season. We are also adding a winch and brush guard ensuring they will not get stranded in the jungle miles from anyone who can help.
What We Need
Jean Claude and Dan Lewan met with Toyota representatives at a global medical missions conference while he was in the USA and have been working with them to arrange wholesale purchase directly from the manufacturer via a program in place for NGOs and the UN. The base price for the truck is about $30,000 and we are making about $10,000 in modifications and spare parts packages. Transportation from Toyota to Nebobongo adds $15,000 in shipping costs, making the total cost $55,000.
Would you consider donating the equivalent of your car payment today to help Nebobongo Hospital get a new truck?
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