In Christ's name, American Leprosy Missions transforms lives in hard places by curing and caring for people affected by leprosy.

American Leprosy Missions Frequently Asked Questions

What denomination are you? Do you witness to people?
American Leprosy Missions strives to present the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ by word and deed to each person we encounter. American Leprosy Missions is a Christian, non-denominational organization. The organization and its employees adhere to the Statement of Faith of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA).

How do you find the patients that you treat?
American Leprosy Missions-trained healthcare workers travel by foot, van, jeep, motorbike, bicycle and boat to remote areas and villages to find, diagnose and treat people affected by leprosy and Buruli ulcer. They also visit schools, clinics, churches and neighborhoods spreading the word that these diseases are curable. Some projects have hospitals where patients may come in for testing and treatment.

How much of my donation reaches the field?
The BBB Wise Giving Alliance Standards for Charity Accountability state that an organization must spend at least 65% of its total expenses on program activities. We are proud that over the past ten years we have averaged above 65%. In 2012, 72% of expenses were invested directly into programs and projects around the world. At American Leprosy Missions we strive to be wise stewards of the funds entrusted to us and aspire to consistently send funds to those who most need them.

Can I sponsor a particular patient?
American Leprosy Missions does not link specific donors with specific children. Donor gifts benefit many different projects and many different people. (You may, however, ask us to designate your gift for a special project or country).

Can I have my donation automatically deducted from my checking account or credit card?
Your charitable gifts can be automatically deducted each month from your checking account or automatically charged to your credit card. Checking Account Automatic Withdrawal forms are available on the Electronic Funds Transfer page. Or, you can set up a monthly credit card donation on our donate page. Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for details.

Where do the majority of your donations come from?
Funding for our ministry comes from individual contributions from more than 30,000 faithful donors, legacies, grants, foundations, churches and government agencies.

Can you give me an update on a featured child?
Sometimes we are able to receive patient updates and forward this information to donors. However, once patients are cured they often return to their villages far away from the hospitals and clinics where they were treated. We're unable to stay in touch with them unless they return for further treatment.

Is my gift tax-deductible?
Yes, gifts are tax-deductible; receipts are issued. American Leprosy Missions is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, charitable organization.

Can I control how much mail I receive?
We can adjust mail schedules to meet your needs. Please call us at 1.800.543.3135 to change your mail preferences.