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Sunday, June 21st 2009
Dear Partners,
We are now home and what a successful trip it was. All our projects are doing well. In Dneproperovsk, the feeding programs include food for senior women and the poor, providing a meal for homeless men and women in a field every day. We visited 4 orphanages, including twice at a very poor oprhanage. Their only request was running shoes for the children.We bought 70 pairs of running shoes and sports balls for their use. They were extremely grateful.
Our drive to Koresten, west of Kiev and close to Cchernobyl, came at the end of a long day on June 11. We spent 4 days there and stayed with Ruslan and Lilia (both speak English). We visited a poor orphanage in need of repairs, some furniture,chalkboards, sports equipment,medical supplies and the list goes on. No one visits or sponsors them. We may be able to assist in some of their requests. The kids were welcoming and very friendly. Ruslan tries to visit these kids on a regular basis with his youth group.
Ruslan's youth center is thriving thanks to our support. More youth are joining the program. He attracts them through music, drama and singing etc. and they participate in the events. The mayor of Koresten is pleased with Ruslan's efforts that he gave him an office and a room in the Cultural Center for free. However that's all he can do, so we'll continue to supoport the program and the youth. We were part of a talk show and topic was about family, relationships,and dating. 40 + youth attended and asked many questions. We had a great time.
We're happy to be home but we do miss our family in Ukraine. With your continued support, we'll be able to meet our commitments regarding the orphans, the surgeries, the homeless, the drug rehab center, etc.,etc.,etc,. Thank you for believing in what we're doing. Together we can change lives. !!!!!!
God Bless. Mike and Sue