A passport will be required beginning in 2009

1. It is a good idea to have your insurance card in case of an emergency.  There is a clinic in the colonia, but if anything major should occur you would be transported to a hospital in El Paso.
2. Bringing your car into Mexico (not recommended) requires special insurance and parking of vehicles at the site is non-existent.  If you do drive, you should park your car in the long term parking at the El Paso airport, where you will be picked up by our Mexico person.
3. Your lodging will be provided for as well as meals, bedding and some necessary toiletries. (TP, towels, etc.)  Bring your own shampoo, soap and personal toiletries.
4. Bring work clothing, a hat with a brim, good gloves are important, leather palms are recommended as cement is hard on the hands.  Clothing could be ruined at the work site, so keep that in mind.  Loose fitting clothing is cooler and long sleeves protect from the sun.  Also bring something comfortable to relax in after work.  At times the wind or the mornings can be chilly so a windbreaker is a good choice.  For the winter months bring clothes that can easily be layered and of course a jacket.
5. Lodging space is limited, so likewise limit the number of items you bring, pack wisely with the project and purpose in mind.
6. Dress modestly, (this is a cultural issue) no tank tops or shorts and no sandals at the work site.  (Sandals and shorts or tanks are ok at Esperanza House).  It is recommended to have your legs covered while working at the site, this is a safety/protection issue.
7. You will be allowed to have some of your clothing washed once during your stay.
8. If you favor a certain water container, bring it along, put your name on it and have it with you always; or you may also purchase a bottle at the corner store. (Del Rio) Dehydration may be cause for illness or hospitalization; but remember to drink only bottled or purified water. (provided)
9. Don’t forget sunscreen, chapstick, sunglasses and camera. (if you want to take pictures)
10. For some people the dust, either dirt or from the cement can be an irritant, if this is a possibility for you, bring along a mask of sorts to help keep from breathing in the dust.
11. Spending money for the possible shopping trip and/or an evening out during the immersion. (Youth groups will need trip money for food on the way down and back)
12. Do not pet local dogs or cats.  Avoid handing out money or gifts to the locals to avoid being overwhelmed.
13. Our resident leader will give a talk about safety practices during your stay, please listen carefully.
14. Remember you will be staying in a foreign country as a guest.  Your personal rights will be much abbreviated, be on your best behavior and treat everyone with respect and courtesy.
15. If you know some Spanish, use it whenever possible, simple greetings or even “gracias” helps to communicate friendliness.
16. If you wish to bring useful items to Mexico, laundry detergent, hand or body soap, cleaning products, canned food, dry food and school supplies (pencils, pens, back packs) are among the most desperately needed items.  Clothing is not an urgent need at this time.
17. Alcohol:  Alcohol is permitted within the compound of Esperanza, in moderation.  Alcohol is never taken out of the compound nor is it offered to the Mexican crews with the exception of an approved celebration within the confines of the Esperanza House compound.