Why We Go
Rice Bowls feeds children in loving homes around the world, giving them healthy meals so they can grow, play, and dream big.
But every child needs more than food - they need love, guidance, safety, and encouragement. Our trips let you be part of that: playing games, celebrating big moments, sharing meals, helping with projects, and simply showing up with an open heart.
Many of these kids have overcome challenges before finding safety in their caring homes. By returning year after year, we remind them they are valued, loved, and worth investing in.
Come serve and be a part of something bigger than yourself.
Join us on an advocacy trip to Honduras or Africa!
“Honduras has been my favorite place since I was 11, and every time I go back, God teaches me something different. This place and these kids are life-changing, and I'm so thankful for the opportunity Rice Bowls has given me to be the hands and feet of Christ!”
- Bella from AL
“My time in Africa was amazing & the kids all now hold a special place in my heart! Going on a mission trip is so important because it opens your eyes to see God's people how He does. It grows you to love as Jesus loves us. I've been on 4 trips with Rice Bowls and hope to go on many more!”
- Sarah Grace from SC
“This was my third Rice Bowls trip and my second to Africa. These mission trips are a great way to see firsthand the work that Rice Bowls does while allowing you to build relationships with some amazing children and their caregivers.”
- Pam from KY
Your Trip Concierges
Johnny Ramantanin - Your Guide
Johnny has a heart for missions. The call on his life is to serve the poor and to be a servant to others who labor in difficult places.
He has traveled to 29 countries and led teams in places like the Philippines, India, Haiti, Nepal, three Central American countries, and four African nations.
Johnny is our team captain. He’s worked with orphanages for over 30+ years and has a giftedness to "get stuff done,” Whether that means playing with children, completing a service project, or guiding groups on trips. He can’t wait to introduce you to our amazing kids!
Melanie Moore - Your Host 
Melanie has a passion for serving others and is always looking for ways to empower those around her to care for those in need. She has been working side by side with people for most of her life, creating impactful opportunities to help change the world.
She has led and hosted teams internationally for 9 years, managing community projects that have served over 225,000 people.
Melanie will be with you every step of the way to ensure your trip is life-changing as you serve our children. Her contagious personality and warm spirit will assist our teams daily to understand the importance of healthy food, generously giving of oneself, and the power of a smile.
The kids you meet could change your life forever
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime.
If you’re feeling ready, go ahead and apply.
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We stay at or visit our partner children’s homes. We are there to play with the kids, be a respite for the caretakers, and serve the home however we can. They are the ones doing the hard, important work for our kids!
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Our Honduras trips are $2395-$2595 depending on the week, and our trip to Zambia and South Africa is $4195. The initial trip deposit of $295 is non-refundable and goes towards your total amount due. We have discounts for Corporate Brand Partners, Church Mission Partners, and Monthly Givers if you want to get involved!
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Our trips are all-inclusive! Your trip cost covers round-trip flights, accommodations, meals and filtered water, ground transportation to the children’s homes, community outings, supplies and activities for the kids, travel insurance, translator, and office concierge.
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Come serve with a positive attitude and be willing to be a team player! We will send you all the important information leading up to your trip with everything you will need to know, including schedule, pack list, customs forms, and more!
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Yes, safety is a priority! We have long-standing relationships with the directors and staff of our partner childrens’ homes and they handle all of our private ground transportation once we are in-country. The home properties are also very secure for the safety of the kids as well as our teams.
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Yes! We are able to accommodate a custom trip or a vision trip for your group. Email trips@ricebowls.org to get started!
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We understand that emergencies or schedule changes can happen - please reach out to our Administrative Coordinator, Mary-Burgess, at mballen@ricebowls.org.
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Reach out to us at trips@ricebowls.org and we will be happy to answer any questions you have!