Introduction: A typical scenario
A recent incident captures the very essence of the Global Hand story. It is a typical scenario, all too typical sadly, illustrating the far-reaching impact of wasted resources.
In the wake of recent "ethnic cleansing" in the Balkans, many refugees still struggle to rebuild their lives. A rehabilitative organisation on the Croatian coast sought to refurbish a centre, operating on a shoestring budget. They could not find the needed furniture.
Across the waters, in Italy, the general manager of a widely patronised hotel was refurbishing his premises. He offered his still excellent furniture to 10 Italian charities. None needed it. He reluctantly trashed it. Meanwhile, the Croatian centre sold one of its buildings in order to furnish the other, thus reducing its effectiveness. Neither knew of the other's situation. This incident is one of many that could be recounted.