Ukrainian Orphanages We Support

Overview of Orphanages in Kremenchug

In Kremenchug and the surrounding villages in Ukraine, there are eight orphanages and shelters, housing approximately 800-900 children ranging in age from babies to 17-18 years old. Children are brought to the facilities, not only because they have no parents but also because of the parents inability to care for the child due to economic conditions, alcoholism, abuse, etc. Children are first place in one of the shelters for medical attention and observation until it can be determined which orphanages will best suit the needs of the child. The government provides $3.50 per child each day in the large facility which houses 385 children and $1.50 per child per day in the other facilities. The money must pay for the child's food and heat . Clothing, shoes, medical attention for special needs, school supplies, recreational equipment , and many other needs are often in meager supply. Children wear second- hand clothes that often do no fit and shoes are worn until the soles are coming apart from the top. Medicine is often in short supply and dental hygiene supplies are hard to get. Toys and playground equipment are almost nonexistent. Such supplies must come from donations through churches, organizations, or individuals.

Orphanage 1-Infirmary

This orphanage houses children who have emotional problems. It is located in an older building that survived World War II on the outskirts of Kremenchug. Children stay here until they are better and then return to one of the other facilities. Approximately 60-70 children stay here at one time. Rooms are filled with beds that are placed end to end with just enough room to walk between the beds. The only space a child can call his own is on the top of his bed. There is little for the children to do to entertain themselves during free time.

Orphanage 2

The orphanage is located in an old building that was built in the 1890's as a residence. During World War II, it served as a hospital. The building became an orphanage in the late 1960's-early 1970's. There are additional buildings that make up the facility that were probably built in the 1940's-50's. Located in one of the villages outside Kremenchug, it had received little help or attention except for the work of member of the Church of Christ in Kremenchug who helped in whatever way they could with limited funds. Until 2005, there were no restroom facilities for the 122 children that lived there. Children used outdoor toliets in very unsanitary condition. During the winter when the temperature was very cold, buckets were used in the main building. Drinking water for all the children had to be carried there from another source since the water at the facility was not safe to drink. In 2005, Mission Ukraine built indoor restroom and shower facilities. Old plumbing was replaced so the children had safe drinking water. In addition, 70 beds were bought for the children, as well as clothes and shoe.