Nothing But Nets: FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should my synagogue get involved in this effort?

The moral test of any society is how it treats the most vulnerable of God’s children: the elderly and the ill, the widow and the orphan, and above all, the children. Global efforts call upon us to end extreme poverty. Taking action through Nothing But Nets allows us to follow our tradition that states that saving a single life is the equivalent of saving the entire world.

How does my $10 donation get to Africa?

Nothing But Nets works with UN agencies and other implementing partners to purchase the nets and distribute them to families. Net distributions are typically part of a wider public health effort within a country coordinated by local ministries of health and public health organizations. Our implementing partners and local governments have expertise in accessing remote, hard-to-reach areas throughout Africa.

How do the bed nets save lives?

Bed nets work in two ways. They stop mosquitoes from biting during the night and spreading the disease, and the insecticide on the nets kills the mosquitoes when they land on them, stopping them from flying on to find their next victim. 

Why should I donate money for nets and not vaccinations?

Bed nets, vaccinations, spraying efforts, and water treatment are all important tools. Nets are one of the most effective ways to prevent malaria and are an easy way for individuals to make a difference in combating this disease. At this time there is not a consistently effective malaria vaccine. The parasite Plasmodium, which carries the disease, changes rapidly and can become drug resistant.

What other organizations are involved in the campaign?

United Nations Foundation, The People of The United Methodist Church, the National Basketball Association’s NBA Cares, and Sports Illustrated, VH1, the Union for Reform Judaism, the Mark J. Gordon Foundation, AOL Black Voices, Rotarians’ Action Group on Malaria, the Wasserman Foundation, and Major League Soccer’s MLS W.O.R.K.S.