Travel Report – Winter 2006

The winter of 2006, a most brutal one, brought much, snow, sleet, hail, and Floridian Rich Fillmon to Ukraine. The journey began Jan. 18, arriving in Ukraine to blizzard conditions I traveled with His Kids, Too! board members, Lynn and Ray. After 2 days of travel, I arrived in Dzerzhinsk. The roads were so bad that the driver could not take us down the street to the house, and we were forced to walk 300 yards. through 3 ft. of snow.

 

The purpose of this trip was to work with the church in Dzerzhinsk, distribute thousands of pounds of aid to orphans, and finalize the plans for the spring workshop. We encourage you to review the photos in the Photo Gallery. There are not a lot, due to the freezing temps, the camera froze several times, but I was able to ‘capture’ the essence of his trip.

 

First stop was the Dzerzhinsk Internot where the director warmly welcomed us. The children were thrilled to see us, as this is where the annual Bible camp is held, and the kids all love to see us. Sound Bible teaching, and genuine love for the children is evident in their response to this visitor. They had a small group for church, as most of the children were in homes, trying to stay warm, as the pipes froze at the school/orphanage. Returning the next day, we took several boxes of clothing, and purchased fruit for the Go Bananas for Orphans program. These children receive weekly fruit, because of the efforts of Kristy C. in Valdosta, GA and the great students at Lowndes Co. High School. We gave the kids a ‘belated’ Christmas celebration 4 kilos oranges, 4 kilos bananas (fruit was difficult to find at the market), cookies, candy, homemade lemonade (which was a big hit with the kids), composition books, and boxes of pencils (thanks to Hania Little), and little toy gifts for each child. We are so happy to report that this internot facility made it to the city playoffs in basketball! A huge accomplishment for an orphanage facility, and we are very proud of the boys. The coach had requested one thing, a leather basketball. While we were in Donetsk we made this purchase. After returning to Dzerzhinsk, we were able to present the gift to the coach, who was speechless! He stated that the regular school receives all the really great equipment, and the Internot’s get the leftovers. His Kids, Too! is going to work on changing that. We hope that you will help! Additionally, several VHS tapes (in Russian) were left for the kids.

 

The next stop was the ‘New York’ Internot, where the pipes had also frozen and blizzard conditions, so there were only 40 kids there. They received bananas, oranges, tangerines, cookies, candy and lemonade, all was a big hit! The kids also received 4 large boxes containing an assortment of clothing, shoes, (thank you Buckner International) and toiletries. This facility will be home to His Kids, Too! first Bible Camp, and they are waiting with great expectation for the summer to arrive.

 

To round out the aid to the village of Dzerzhinsk, we made a visit to the Artum Orphan Hospital. They were delighted to see us, and happy with the boxes of baby clothes (thank you Neve and Friends), toys, and asked for a couple of needed items (scales and potties). We were able to fill that request, and later returned with those items.

 

Getting to Donetsk was the next challenge due to the weather. We had at a minimum 700+ lbs. of humanitarian aid to get there, but road conditions were impassable. We waited a day and sorted more aid, and prepared for the trip. It was important to be organized on the delivery stops on the way to Donetsk, while we had a driver and a big enough vehicle to take boxes. Due to the weather, many drivers just refused to work, in addition to the high fuel costs. One had to ‘book’ a driver days in advance. As we left for Donetsk, we made several stops along the way to drop off aid to different places and families that His Kids, Too! serves.

 

Arriving in Donetsk, the first stop was Our Children. The director, a very pleasant person, was happy to see us, and 3 huge boxes of aid were left at this facility. Additionally, Lynn and Ray, the board members who live in Ukraine, met us. We were allowed to interact with several of the children, and dressed them in new clothes, and presented many new toys to them.

The next stop was the Teremok Orthopedic Hospital. The director, a totally delightful woman, was happy to see us, though surprised, since it is usually Teresa that travels. They currently have 57 children, but that number fluctuates. Vitamins were requested and purchased for the facility, along with requested fever reducer (which we had already). Discussion on the plight of CP children and adults ensued, as the director has full knowledge of this topic. She was able to shed some light on this, which gave us a greater understanding of the urgency of making some decisions concerning our future role with this population. Two large boxes of winter clothing, along with one box of toys were left with this facility.

 

After some rest, the next stop was the local Homeless Shelter/Transition Home for ex-convicts, and adults living on the street. Greeted by the director, he gave a full tour of the facility to us. The director was very open about the facility, their mission to the community, and was clear to state that their facility was the only one of it’s kind in the region. They were able to feed and sleep 30 persons, but with some renovations (His Kids, Too! was able to help with mattresses and bed linens), they now can help 50 persons. He was very gracious and happy to receive 3 large boxes of adult men’s winter clothing.

 

Moving on, the next stop was the Homeless Children’s Shelter. This facility usually home to 75 children, but due to the harsh winter 150 children were seeking refuge at the facility. They were packed, and happy to receive the 4 large boxes of winter clothing. We thank Glendale Rd. Church of Christ for the great winter coats.

 

The final stop for this day was the Aids Hospital, where His Kids, Too! is well known. The Director and head Dr. were happy to see the group, and graciously toured the facility with them, allowing for lots of photos. The hospital was almost at max. capacity of 85, 14 of the children have confirmed Aids, the rest are in the testing process to determine a diagnosis. Obvious signs of aid left by His Kids, Too! on previous visits were evident, crib mobiles, blankets, clothing, toys, the children were happy and are well cared for. Diapers were requested, and immediately purchased and sent to the facility.

 

Returning to Dzerzhinsk, the trip was coming to an end, but the snow was still coming down! Each facility received another visit, delivering requested items that were purchased in Donetsk. Each time, we were warmly greeted, and encouraged by the enthusiasm of the children. On each visit more fruit, cookies, and juice were distributed to the children. The winter was very harsh, and many children are sick with colds, fever, respiratory infections, etc.

 

This trip also was the beginning of a pilot program for orphans. We are excited about this program, and will provide more details as the program develops. The main goal is an effort to keep children out of the Specialized Children’s home, and the Invalid Homes. The city of Dzerzhinsk is embracing this program, and we are happy to provide the service to the community and children.

Plans were finalized for the Spring workshop and plans for the Summer Camp were formulated.  Wehn Teresa comes in Spring, all this will be completed. Thank you again for your prayers, concerns, and commitment to the orphans in Ukraine, without your help we could not do this vital work of reaching the lost for Christ. We are all called to ‘go’ (Matthew 28:18) some go to the store and purchase items to be sent to Ukraine, some are called to organize collection of clothing, some write a check to help someone else ‘go’, or to help with the work there, some pray for those who do ‘go’, some pray for the orphans, and some travel thousands of miles and ‘go’ to Ukraine. All equally important, and we all play a role in the great commission. Thank you!

 

In His Service,

Rich Fillmon

Director of Communications/His Kids, Too!

 

Please note, that due to the new monthly Newsletter,  information is now available on that section of this site.

Fall 2006 Travel Report

October is a great time to travel to Ukraine. The weather is fairly nice, and the trees are beautiful. His Kids, Too! Director, Teresa Fillmon, advisory board member Walter Steely and volunteer Kevin Mack had 2 busy weeks in the Donetsk region of Ukraine. Our time was well spent, moving throughout the region, visiting 18 facilities housing over 4300 children and adults, and leaving a trail of aid on our path. Because of your generous giving, thousands of children and adults received clothing, medicine, food supplements, shoes, bedding, toiletries, and much more.

It was a great time of fellowship for the saints at the Kirovo Church in Dzerzhinsk, and each worship time brought visitors. The church helped with a great service project of putting together the personal care bags for the orphans.

We met an American woman adopting 2 of our wonderful students from our summer Bible camp. Her mother was accompanying her, and it was such a joy to get to know them, and have their assistance with clothing distribution at the local Internot. We hope that we can continue our contact with the kids and their family, after they return. Additionally, another set of siblings are being adopted by a Canadian couple. It was really exciting to know that 4 children are moving into great homes, but we should continue to pray for that transition. Overall, adoption in Ukraine is in need of prayer. Hundreds of couples wait for the government to reopen for new dossiers, while they try to serve those who have already been waiting for over 1 year.

It is vital that each of you know that you are important to His Kids,Too! You play an important role in the life of a child. Every donation is appreciated, every toothbrush, every bar of soap, every pair of shoes, every heavy coat, etc. Without you, there is no way we could serve the thousands of unserved orphans and needy in Ukraine. You are making a difference!

Below is the breakdown by facility of aid distribution. Please feel free to review the many photos in the Photo Gallery on the website, www.hiskidstoo.org. Direct Aid to facilities from His Kids, Too!:

Artum Hospital

2 large boxes of clothing – Frieda and Lucille, Columbia Sportswear, MWCOC Toys – Jody G. His Kids, Too! Medical uniforms Night-lights Rash cream, wooden tongue depressors, thermometers, gloves PAMPERS – IPC Grant Heater for rehab. room

PROJECT from summer: Start the rehabilitation room project: wallpaper, paint, and review catalog for ordering items – we are pleased to report this room is COMPLETE with special thanks to a sponsor that wishes to remain anonymous (please see our Photo Gallery for the wonderful photos of the completed room

Needs: Funds for diaper program Funding for juice Funds for medicine

Internot – Dzerzhinsk

8 boxes of clothing – Raa Middle School – Columbia Sportswear, Andrea S. (and friends), Rachel E. Personal care bags – Central CoC, Sandy J. Facility – first aid supplies, large shampoo, toothpaste(s), lotion Underwear – Central CoC Fruit – GO Bananas New shoes – IPC and Anne H. 180 Mattresses – Funding provided by grant from Glendale Rd. CoC Bananas *

Needs: Personal care bags 100 towels – $200 to purchase in country Shoes (a constant need) Winter coats Easy board games – checkers, chess, puzzles

Donetsk Regional Children’s Psychiatric Hospital (NEW) Art supplies clothing

Needs: 100 sheets

Shaktrusk Internot

Blankets – Mary D. and South Trail CoC 3 boxes of clothing/shoes Personal care bags – Central CoC Facility – first aid supplies, large shampoo, toothpaste(s), lotion

*NEW Abakymova Orphan Hospital

clothing – Frieda and Anne H. Facility – first aid supplies, large shampoo, toothpaste(s), lotion Pampers – IPC Grant – on-going

Needs: They are a part of the monthly diaper project – $50.00 monthly

Aids Hospital – this facility is well cared for by Brother Jaydon Rogers and friends. 1 box of clothing – Frieda H., Michelle S. shoes – IPC Medical care bag, diaper rash cream Pampers – IPC Grant – on-going Medical clothing

Needs: Working on a grant project for this facility – financial assistance for starting a new program for families infected with Aids (these are intact families) $250.00 monthly for Pampers

Our Children

Underwear – Central CoC Medical clothing PAMPERS – on-going Facility – first aid supplies, diaper rash cream

Needs: Pampers – $200 monthly – in country purchase Funds for antibiotics – $100.00 monthly – in country purchase

Dzershinsk Orphanage

3 boxes of clothing –Rachel E., Raa Middle school, Stuart W.

Underwear – Central CoC Personal Care bags for each child – Central CoC

Facility – first aid supplies, large shampoo, toothpaste(s), lotion

Shoes – IPC Day School Sports equipment Bananas *

Needs: Sports equipment – $100.00 will purchase in Ukraine Art supplies – $100.00 – will purchase in Ukraine Shoes (larger sizes – 6 – 10) Christmas boxes (please contact us for more information)

Mental Hospital

2 large boxes of clothing – MWCOC, Betty R., Andrea R. and friends

Donetsk Children’s Shelter

3 boxes of clothing/shoes – Anne H., Andrea R. and friends, Millbrook Presbyterian Church Coats – Columbia Sportswear Easy board games – checkers, chess, puzzles Facility – first aid supplies, large shampoo, toothpaste(s), lotion

Needs: Sports Equipment – $100.00 – will purchase in-country Boots/coats

Adult Shelter/Donetsk

Adult clothing – Kathy G., MWCOC Blankets – Frieda

Toraz Invalid Hospital

Bananas* Cookies clothing – shoes Hats – Hania L.

Needs: Please contact us directly for needs for this facility

Novroghorsk Internot

Hats – Hania Little, Frieda (gloves) Clothing – Raa Middle, Millbrook Presbyterian Shoes Art Supplies – Millbrook Pres. Personal care bags – Central CoC

Needs: Boots Sports Equipment – $100.00 We would like to have a sponsor for a project at this facility, contact us directly Easy board games – checkers, chess

Teremok Orthopedic Hospital

3 boxes of clothing – Anita B. Frieda and Lucille, Michelle S. Shoes – IPC Medical clothing Toys – Raa Middle School, Jody G., Rick S. PAMPERS – IPC Grant – on-going

New Facility

TB Children’s Hospital 2 boxes of NEW clothing shoes – IPC

Blankets – Mary D. and South Trail CoC

Needs:

Medicine, boots

*NEW Hope of Dzerzhinsk Disability Group

This group will apply for a grant (contact us for specific details to help this deserving group of physically challenged children and adults)

Needs:

Laptop for a teen with Cerebral Palsy for his institute studies

Medicine: Desferal for boy with iron problems Resistance exercise bands

Craft supplies – $30.00 Sports equipment – $50.00

Applying for a grant for specific needs for their facility – please contact us if interested in helping

House of Prayer Church of Dzerzhinsk. One very large box of mixed adult and children clothing – Andrea R., Jane W., Kathy L. 2 bags of shoes – Kathy G., IPC Barbies and cars – Raa Middle School

Kremenchuk Boys Prison 8 large boxes of jeans – Margaret S. and Glendale Rd. CoC.

Kivoro Church of Christ Boxes of clothing for local distribution House of Prayer 2 large boxes of children and adult clothing

We are excited about what God is doing in the hearts of so many people in Ukraine and are thankful for the continued opportunity to serve them.

Volunteer Updates: We are thankful that Kevin Mack was able to join us in Ukraine, and his medical knowledge was helpful. We hope that he and others will join us for a future trip. Special thanks to Margaret S. and her colleagues and friends Five HUGE boxes of clothing arrived. See Photo Gallery for photos. Additionally, because of a generous sponsor, the Artum Orphan Hospital has a rehabilitation room. We are pleased to report we are bringing another child to the states for medical care, and we are thankful to Fresh Start for their support in this effort. We are thankful to each of you for your continued support. His Kids, Too! has well over 500 volunteers in over 17 states. God is good!

PRESENT NEEDS: Please note our needs area below each facility listed above, as needs are ever present and many times facility specific.

– Medical professionals ARE NEEDED to volunteer for our Spring trip. His Kids, Too! has been invited again to present life saving information to orphan teen boys and girls. We have the curriculum: we just need medical professionals to present it. If you feel moved to spend 7-14 days in Ukraine ministering to this age group, please contact us before February 1, 2007. director@hiskidstoo.org

– Christian Children’s Home – we are happy to report that progress is being made, and since we are registered FUND in Ukraine; this will greatly benefit the status of this project. Funds are still needed to complete the project, please earmark your donations: ‘Christian Home’.

We thank you again for your love, support, prayers and encouragement, and we look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

Teresa C. Fillmon

Director/His Kids, Too!/Cornerstone Adoption Services, Inc. www.hiskidstoo.org www.cornerstoneadoption.com

Summer 2006 Travel Report

 It was an exciting summer in Ukraine as 6 His Kids, Too! volunteers arrived June 23. This trip was in conjunction with Dr. Bill Wharton’s summer Bible camp group, going to provide a Bible camp to orphans and school children. After the week long camp, His Kids, Too! volunteers continued to provide evening Bible classes while during the day working to distribute aid to thousands of orphans throughout the region, in addition to reaching out to the local community’s' elderly, disabled, mentally ill and poor.

 This was the 5th year for our annual Bible camp. Daily, we (and 14 others from the U.S.) presented stories from the Bible to over 200 children. We eagerly anticipate next year and invite you to join the team. Seeing the fruits of the labor usually takes lots of time, and this year was no different. We are seed planting and watering seeds planted in the past. One exciting event occurred when the Internot children asked to come to the evening Bible services, which were quite a distance away. Each afternoon, I would hire a minivan to go transport them.

We were blessed in many ways, and it was exciting to see one of our translators make a decision for Christ. Nikka, 22 yrs. old, took a cold plunge at the sauna (the only place we could find enough water to baptize her), and was baptized into Christ on July 8!

The following week two more team members arrived, Dallas and Ashley. We were scheduled to have our Bible camp, but a most unfortunate thing happened. The local miners group decided to send all the children to summer camp for 6 weeks. Though we were disappointed that we could not share the gospel with the children, we were very happy for the opportunity for these developmentally delayed children. We made the best of the situation, and this extra time allowed us the opportunity to visit 2 additional orphan hospital facilities. Affording us time to purchase cribs, mattresses, clothing, diapers and more, in addition to serving the local community (see the photo gallery for photos). The extra time allowed us the chance to provide nightly Bible studies to the community. Each night people gathered for Bible study at our home. Numbers ranged from 15 to 29. One of the most exciting things was that three of our students from the Internot that we had taught during the Bible camp attended the studies. It was a miracle to see the hand of God work in these three teenage boys’ lives. By the second week, they were asking questions and seeking guidance. We have known these boys for years because they have been a part of the annual Bible camps. “Seeds were planted and watered,” and the Spirit of God has begun to take root. We are very excited that these young men are seeking God, and we ask for your prayers concerning them.

We frequently see groups come in, convert people, and then never return to help them mature in Christ. About 99% of those converted in this way “fall away” because they were not taught or matured. Many see it as a way to “rich Americans'” hearts, and just “do” what they think we expect and want them to do. What we have seen in the years that we have worked in Ukraine, is that deep spiritual commitment takes time. Just like Jesus taught his disciples, we slowly and accurately teach people how to live a Christian life. Since Christianity is so new to Ukraine, many of the foundational principles of Christianity must be taught before they can have an understanding of what a Christian is, and how Christ calls us to obedience in all areas of our lives. We have been blessed to be able to return, time and time again, to nurture and try to exemplify Christ to the lost of Ukraine. We ask for your prayers and support. We encourage you to join us when your schedule permits.

Adoption (www.cornerstoneadoption.com) is a part of His Kids, Too! We are helping families with the process from start to finish. We were happy that we were able to get accurate figures on orphans. Presently, there are lots of questions concerning adoptions. Ukraine, a country of over 47 million, is host to 13,188 registered orphans (confirmed June 2006, adoption seminar, Kyiv Ukraine), with 3228 in the age bracket of 0-3. Granted, there are many more children in orphanages and Internots, but these are figures on registered (available) orphans for adoption. Presently, Ukraine is moving in the direction of foster care for all orphaned/abandoned children. Ukraine is going to take care of their “own.” Adoption will still be possible, but the only children that will be in the orphanage facilities are disabled children that are waiting to be placed in foster care homes. Foster Care homes will be government subsidized, and people will be given a monetary subsidy along with, medical care stipend, a car/van, and funds to build or buy a larger home. These incentives, along with the desire to help orphans, are proving effective, as we personally know of 3 Ukrainian families that are providing foster care to orphans. His Kids, Too! presently supports one family with 6 (and adding more) foster care children.

His Kids, Too!'s main focus is providing life sustaining humanitarian aid to orphans. This trip was no different then any other. We especially want to thank the over 200 volunteers who sent humanitarian aid to Ukraine for distribution. This aid of clothing, shoes, toys, sports equipment, medical supplies and more, was sorted and distributed to over 3,700 children, teens, adults and the elderly. We welcome you to review our photos in the Photo Gallery.

Below is a detailed list of the facility, aid given, and present needs. You may notice that we added three more groups, one orphan hospital, and two Ukrainian charities working with the disabled (with intact families). We stress that accountability is provided to our donors. Please review and forward any questions to us.

Direct Aide to facilities from His Kids, Too!:

Artum Hospital

2 large boxes of clothing – Neve and friends, Columbia Sportswear, Frieda, MWCOC

5 cribs

5 mattresses – IPC Grant 10 crib sheets

Toys – Rick S.

Mattresses liners – Frieda H.

His Kids, Too! Medical uniforms

Rash cream PAMPERS – IPC Grant

Fruit – Go Bananas project (*we served thousands via this program)

Medical Supplies – Dick Walker

PROJECT: Start the rehabilitation room project: wallpaper, paint, review catalog for ordering items

 Needs: Wooden tongue depressors Children’s blood pressure equipment ($500.00 for 10 kits) Resistance bands – physical therapy equipment – contact us for details Thermometers (regular slender size) Gloves – $200.00 – purchase in country

Internot – Dzerzhinsk

4 boxes of clothing – Raa Middle School – Columbia Sportswear

Personal care bags – Central CoC, Sandy J.

Canvas bags for camp – Peggy N.

 Sports equipment from the BIBLE camp

100 sheets – IPC Grant

50 towels

50 pillowcases – IPC grant

Underwear – Central CoC

Fruit – GO Bananas

Hats – Spirit Sales

New shoes – IPC and Buckner, and Anne H.

Bananas *

Needs: Personal care bags 100 towels – $200 to purchase in country Jeans Shoes (a constant need of Winter coats Christmas boxes (please contact us for more information)

 Donetsk Regional Children’s Hospital

50 mattresses – IPC Grant

Needs: 100 sheets – IPC Grant

Shaktrusk Internot

25 mattresses – IPC Grant

25 pillows – IPC Grant

Hot water heater – IPC Grant

*NEW Abakymova Orphan Hospital

8 cribs

8 mattresses – IPC Grant

1 box of clothing – Shoes – IPC day school

TOYS – Jody G., Columbia Sportswear

Pampers – IPC Grant

HOT WATER HEATER – IPC Grant

Needs: They will be added to the monthly diaper project – $50.00 monthly

Aids Hospital

3 boxes of clothing – Frieda H., Rachel E., Andrea R. shoes

Pampers – IPC Grant

Medical clothing

Needs: Working on a grant project for this facility – financial assistance for starting a new program for families infected with Aids (these are intact families) $250.00 monthly for Pampers

Our Children

Antibiotics

Medical clothing
PAMPERS

Needs: Pampers – $200 monthly – in country purchase Funds for antibiotics – $100.00 monthly – in country purchase

Dzershinsk Orphanage

3 boxes of clothing – Neve and Friends, Rachel E., Raa Middle school, Stuart W.

Shoes – IPC Day School Sports equipment

Bananas *

Needs: Sports equipment – Always – $100.00 will purchase in Ukraine Art supplies – $100.00 – will purchase in Ukraine Shoes (larger sizes – 6 – 10) Christmas boxes (please contact us for more information)

Mental Hospital

1 large box of clothing – MWCOC, Betty R., Andrea R. and friends Christmas boxes (please contact us for more information)

Donetsk Children’s Shelter

3 boxes of clothing – Anne H., Neve and friends

1 box of shoes

X-Ray film

Needs: Christmas boxes (please contact us for more information) Sports Equipment – $100.00 – will purchase in country

Adult Shelter/Donetsk

Adult clothing – Betty R., MWCOC Fruit

Toraz Invalid Hospital

Bananas* Cookies

8 boxes of NEW clothing – Garnet and Gold of Tallahassee

1 box of shoes Hats – Embroidered Apparel

Needs: Please contact us directly for needs for this facility

Novroghorsk Internot

Hats – embroidered apparel

Clothing – Raa Middle, Andrea R. and friends, Stuart W., Rachel E.

Shoes – Buckner Shoes

Canvas bags – Peggy N.

Personal care bags – Central CoC

Needs: Christmas boxes (please contact us for more information) Sports Equipment – $100.00

Teremok Orthopedic Hospital

 2 boxes of clothing – Rachel E, Andrea Robinson and friends, Anita B.

Shoes – IPC

Toys – Jody G., Rick S.

PAMPERS – IPC Grant

Dzerzhinsk Disability Group Fun Day – personal care bags – canvas bags, food *, games, toys, bananas

*NEW Hope of Dzerzhinsk Disability Group

Fruit and cookies

Clothing and shoes

Since we just started with this group, we have assessed the needs, and they will apply for a grant (contact us for specific details to help this deserving group of physically challenged children and adults)

Needs: Laptop for a teen with Cerebral Palsy for his institute studies

Medicine: Desferal for boy with iron problems Resistance exercise bands Christmas boxes (please contact us for more information) Craft supplies – $30.00 Sports equipment – $50.00 Applying for a grant for specific needs for their facility – please contact us if interested in helping

*NEW Senior Citizen group of Dzershinzk

Eyeglasses

Large bag of clothing – MWCOC, Kathy G., Betty R., Jane W.

Needs: Applying for a grant for medicine/crutches

House of Prayer Church of Dzerzhinsk

One very large box of mixed adult and children clothing – Andrea R., Jane W., Kathy L.

2 bags of shoes – Kathy G., Kathy L.

Kivoro Church of Christ

Boxes of clothing for local distribution

Without the help of so many people, we could never serve all these deserving children and adults. We try to direct people towards self-sufficiency, but that doesn’t always work, especially for young orphans. We steer all Internot children to make wise Godly decisions, by talking, teaching and praying with them. We are excited about what God is doing in the hearts of so many people in Ukraine and are thankful for the continued opportunity to serve them.

Volunteer Updates: Please note our needs area below each facility, as needs are ever present and many times facility specific. We are thankful to the many individuals that have picked up the volunteer ball and have taken specific causes on and have successfully provided aid to hundreds. Special thanks to Margaret S. and her colleagues and friends for their special interest in the Kremenchuk Boys Prison. These boys are the forgotten orphans, due to their criminal activity. Many of which were only trying to survive: the orphans are at the bottom of the help chain (along with the invalids). Five HUGE boxes of clothing are on their way, and funds to assist with food, medicine and other ministry needs. Additionally, because of a generous sponsor, the Artum Orphan Hospital will have a rehabilitation room in the Fall. The room is presently being prepared and equipment is being ordered. The IPC Foundation has been wonderfully generous, and you will notice the number of items in the summer distribution that can be attributed to their support. We are now in the process of bringing another child to the states for medical care, and we are thankful to Fresh Start for their support in this effort. Large clothing donors, Frieda H. and friends., Anne H., Andrea R. and friends, Rachel E., Anita B., Raa Middle School, Rick S. and friends, Kathy G., Kristy C.. Our Blanket Group: Mary D. and friends, have made over 500 blankets! God is good!

PRESENT NEEDS: – Medical professionals ARE NEEDED to volunteer for our Fall trip. His Kids, Too! has been invited again to present life saving information to orphan teen boys and girls. We have the curriculum: we just need presenters. If you feel moved to spend 7-14 days in Ukraine ministering to this age group, please contact us before September 1, 2006. director@hiskidstoo.org

 – Christmas boxes for thousands of orphans – we have a volunteer, if you like to assist with this project

– Christian Children’s Home – we are happy to report that progress is being made, and since we are registered FUND in Ukraine, this will greatly benefit the status of this project.

We thank you again for your love, support, prayers and encouragement, and we look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

Teresa C. Fillmon

Director/His Kids, Too!/Cornerstone Adoption Services, Inc. www.hiskidstoo.org

www.cornerstoneadoption.com

 

Spring 2006 Trip Report

His Kids, Too! has always been a charity focused on doing the will of the Father and furthering the Kingdom of God, and we remain open to the leading of the Spirit for new ministry opportunities in Ukraine.  In response to that leading, in 2006 His Kids, Too! has already embarked on several new ventures, and we are implementing the necessary steps to bring these new ministries to fruition.

We encourage you to view our Spring 2006 trip photos in our photo gallery.  In addition, the Gift Shop contains new items and all proceeds benefit orphans.

The Spring 2006 trip provided a new opportunity for ministry when His Kids, Too! Director Teresa Fillmon traveled with U.S. educators to Ukraine for several presentations to orphans and school children on the importance of abstinence, the pitfalls of abortion (reminding them it is not a form of contraception), and protection from AIDS (Ukraine is presently the fastest growing country per capita for AIDS), risks of STDs, prenatal care and substance abuse.  The theme of the presentations was the fact that they are precious children of God and making wise choices is vital to a healthy, long life.  We were embraced by city officials, school officials, parents and children, eager to hear and see the information.  We were very blessed to have Amy B. from Huntsville, Alabama as our technology guru; George S. from Fresno, CA who taught the boys on the above topics; Peggy N. from Fresno, CA, worked with the girls on the risks of substance abuse during pregnancy; and Erin F. from Fresno, CA, who provided information on AIDS, abortion, STDs, and fetal development.  All presenters encouraged abstinence before marriage.   Presentations were well received, and an invitation was received for ‘more of the same’ in the future.  In addition, the educators worked with local teachers to help trouble shoot some areas of conveying this material to the students in the future.

The second week of the trip was spent assessing needs and providing aid to several facilities, in addition to giving one more presentations.  Below are facilities visited and aid provided, with current needs that require our attention:

Artum Baby Hospital:  Thanks to Dana and Mark E., this facility now has 5 new cribs with mattresses and 3 new high chairs/tables.  In addition, they were given blankets, baby clothes (thank you Neve and friends, and Michelle Smith), busy boxes for the new cribs, new sheets and mattresses pads, cloth diapers, and baby toys.
Needs:  a ‘ball pit’, physical therapy table, and other equipment, white nurse uniforms or scrubs.

Dzerzhinsk Internat:  Special thanks to Buckner Shoes and Jeremiah’s Hope for newshoes! This facility also received clothing (thank you Andrea Robinson and friends), personal care bags, socks, sports equipment, blankets (thank you South Trail CoC), shampoo, and bananas (this facility is part of the ‘Go bananas for Orphans’ program).
Needs:  more shoes, sporting equipment, would like $200.00 to purchase basketball uniforms for 15 boys.

Dzerzhinsk Shelter:  (This facility is temporary home to former street children.  Many, many children come through their doors.)  We provided clothing, shoes, personal care bags, sport balls, puzzles, and toothpaste. 
Needs:  Clothing, personal care bags, more sport equipment, funds to complete renovations of the facility.

Novgorodsk Internat:  (This facility is doing well, considering the conditions.  The staff are wonderful and waiting for each of our visits.  We are pleased to say that they will participate in the firstHis Kids, Too! summer Bible camp, and they are thrilled.)   This facility received clothing (thank you Andrea R. and friends, and Darlene S.), blankets (thank you Frieda H.), shoes, crayons, color pencils, hats, and scarves (thank you Hania Little).
Needs:  Sports equipment, personal care bags, shoes.

Donetsk Shelter:  Special thanks to Buckner Shoes and Jeremiah’s Hope for new shoes!  This shelter also received clothing (thank you Stuart W. and friends, and Raa Middle School in Tallahassee, FL), and blankets (thank you South Trail Church of Christ).
Needs:  Shoes, personal care bags

Donetsk Adult Shelter:  Clothing (thanks to Guy Moore of Garnet and Gold of Tallahassee).
Needs:  Small men’s and small ladies’ clothing.

Teremok Orphan Hospital:  Clothing and toys (thank you Darlene S.. Neve and friends, Raa Middle School), shoes.  This facility receives juice and diapers in an on going program.
Needs:   clothing, shoes.

Our Children:  (This facility was under measles quarantine during our visit, so we were only able to see 2 rooms of children. The director and staff were warm and friendly.  It was great to see the child with severe burns with his ‘soon to be’ parents.)   We left one huge box of new clothing (thank you Anne Huell).  They receive juice and diapers monthly, in addition to special medicine and other medical needs.
Needs: funds for programs in place at this facility

AIDS Hospital:  (This facility was under entire measles quarantine.)  We delivered 2 big boxes of clothing, shoes, blankets, some medical supplies, toys (thank you Neve and friends), and knitted hats (thank you Hania L.).
Needs: funds to maintain juice and diaper programs, funds for needs as they arise

Home of the Forgotten:  (We were very warmly greeted.  The Director was pleasant and affirmed that he graciously accepts our donations and is pleased with our work.  This facility, home to 330 children and adult ladies, is truly a sad place.)  We delivered 4 boxes of clothing (thank you Guy M. – all clothing was new with tags), and 40 kilos of bananas (Go Bananas for Orphans).  We passed out 10 kilos of cookies, some shoes, and over 40 blankets. We also gave them 200 cloth diapers (Thank you Glewview Road CoC).
Needs: This facility provides a needs list, in which we are able to purchase items in Ukraine.  Several projects are being reviewed for implementation at this facility.  Funds are welcome.

Donetsk Adult Homeless Shelter:  Adult clothing (thanks to Frieda H., Elizabeth Morgan, Andrea R. and friends, Pam and George A., Kathy Gunter).
Needs:  Adult clothing.

Orphan Boys Prison:  (NEW FACILITY – home to over 100 mostly orphan boys.  All are very thin.) This need was presented to us, we did not visit this facility.
Needs:   Boys clothing 12 – 28 waist slim, small and medium shirts, shoes up to size 10 men’s.  Drop us a note for the shipping address.

Each Sunday we spent time at the local Internat worshiping with orphans.  Team members presented the Easter story to the kids, along with a great craft, and the kids thoroughly enjoyed it.   On one Saturday we offered a workshop/fun day for the disabled community of Dzerzhinsk, with games, crafts, and refreshments for all who came, and professional assistance for parents with questions and concerns for their children. 

Our time in Ukraine was well spent, and thousands of children were helped.  In addition, hundreds of young people were given the tools and information to help them make wise decision concerning their behavior.  We look forward to summer and the ministry opportunities that lay before us.  If you or someone you know is interested in joining us on a trip, please contact us.

His Kids, Too! is excited about the opportunities in Ukraine.  God continues to open doors and provide volunteers and funding to the many programs to help orphans.  We covet your prayers; we appreciate each of you as a valued participant in the work in Ukraine.  We can’t do this alone. 

Thank you again.  Please do not hesitate to contact us for more information.

Sincerely,
Teresa Fillmon
Director/His Kids, Too!
All donations are tax deductible