His Kids, Too! Travel Report Fall 2005

Our fall visit to Ukraine was exciting and very busy. We were pleased to have 3 additional sets of hands with us, as accompanying me were Peggy N. and Erin F. from CA, and Walter Lee S. from Murray KY. Time was short and work was aplenty, to God be all the glory.

 Our mission was 2 fold on this trip. First, Peggy and Erin were invited to give several presentations to the ‘young ladies’ of internots (boarding schools), shelters, and to local hospitals concerning women health care issues, and the dangers of drinking while pregnant. Of course, one main focus was abstinence, but the reality is some do not, thus issues like abortion, STD’s, alcohol, smoking, drugs, were reviewed, using a Godly perspective to teach the young ladies that these behaviors are not in God’s plan. Additionally, a workshop was presented to a local group of children with disabilities, their parents, and some local educators, showing them that these wonderful children can be integrated into the community with other children. Peggy, a physical therapist, demonstrated different techniques to enhance muscle tone, and encourage parental interaction with their children. Special thanks to Walter for ‘lugging’ his heavy laptop 7000 miles, as the DVD’s were a real ‘hit’ for the different groups. We had several local officials present at one presentation, and we are happy to report that this type of teaching is welcome. We have been invited to present a citywide workshop to all the public school administrators, teens, 2 groups working with the disabled, and to interested parents. Plans are in the works. If you are interested in the Spring ministry opportunity, contact us directly.

 Second, our trip would consist of visiting the facilities that His Kids, Too! already is servicing, assessing new needs, visiting new facilities that have requested assistance, working on the details of our Christian Home, visiting with church members, and teaching ladies Bible class when possible. With the help of the Lord and our wonderful interpreter, Vanya, all these goals were met. We encourage you to view photos from the trip on our website: www.hiskidstoo.org, under the Photo Gallery, Fall 2005. Below is a more comprehensive description of how you impacted the lives of children across the ocean, and what the needs are for spring 2006!

 Facility distributions:

Artum Orphan Hospital: Baby blankets (thank you Frieda H. and Mary D.), stockings, knitted hats, and booties; clothing, busy boxes/toys (thank you Neve and friends), shoes (Independent Presbyterian Church of Birmingham) sleepers, clothe diapers (thank you Frieda H.); blood pressure kits for children (thank you Glendale Church of Christ)

Dzerzhinsk Internat (61 orphans, 435 children) facility where ladies conduct Sunday A.M. Bible study: hats (thanks Honey L.), gloves, scarves (thank you Frieda H.), clothing (Raa Middle School); shampoo, toothpaste, markers (Peggy and Erin and friends), and crayons, sporting equipment, cookies and bananas. Erin and Peggy gave presentation to teen girls.

 Dzerzhinsk Orphanage (39 kids) and home to one of the 2 Sunday Bible studies: clothing (Raa Middle School), shampoo, toothpaste, markers (Peggy, Erin and friends), crayon books, sport equipment, cookies and bananas.

The Norvgorosk Internat is home to 50 orphans: Personal care bags for all children, clothing, sports equipment, markers, books, shampoo, and toothpaste. Erin and Peggy gave presentation to teen girls.

Teremok Orthopedic Hospital (60 +/-): clothing, toys, and stockings, shoes (Independent Presbyterian Church of Birmingham) Peggy shared helpful techniques to the staff and had an exchange of ideas. Funding for the diaper program, provided by Jimmy and Mary Alice B.)

Aids facility (130 children): clothing for 130 children (Neve and friends), 25 blankets (thank you Frieda, SouthTrail COC), knitted caps (Honey L.) and booties, shoes (Independent Presbyterian Church of Birmingham), children blood pressure kits (Walter S.), rubber gloves (Amy B.), electronic scale (thank you Jimmy and Mary Alice B.)

Our Children Orphanage (150 +/-): shoes (Independent Presbyterian Church of Birmingham) knitted hats and booties, toys, clothing, on-going juice and diaper program (This facility receives assistance from several sources.), funds were left for a Holiday Party (thank you Mark and Jenn S.)

Donetsk Internat: Funds for personal hygiene products for girls – $80.00 monthly for 100 girls. Erin and Peggy gave presentation to teen girls.

The Shelter: 3 big boxes of clothing, (Raa Middle School) shoes (Independent Presbyterian Church of Birmingham), children blood pressure kits (Walter S.), funds were left for the purchase of coats and boots (Peggy and Erin)

The ‘Home of the Forgotten’ (working from a provided list) 315 patients: boxes of clothing, cookies and bananas Mental Hospital (60 patients): Clothing (Elizabeth M., Meridian Woods COC)

Donetsk Feeding Program: This program started with 50 people, 3 have died (from age), and 3 are involved with one on one Bible studies. We have had one baptism so far, and one attends the Ukrainian Bible Institute. The program has been expanded to 70. In addition to food, clothing is provided when necessary.

Dzerzhinsk Feeding Program: This program has been disbanded to allow the local church to pick up this effort to assist their members. In general, any program should be a segway to teach, not enable, thus the saying, ‘you can feed a man a fish, or teach him to fish.’ We will revisit this program in the spring.

NEW FACILITIES:

Donetsk Home for former convicts/homeless people (30 beds). This facility, run by the government came to our attention by Ray G. a His Kids, Too! board member. After a visit to the facility, it was determined that indeed we could assist these folks with mattresses, sheets, towels, and much needed clothing. This small assistance will help them get re-established in the community as productive citizens.

Donetsk Home for Mentally and Physically disabled men ages 18 and up: After visiting the ‘Home of the Forgotten’, we noticed that some of the older teens were missing. Upon questioning, we were directed to this facility. We came completely unannounced, and what we found was exceptional! A total surprise, and actually we encourage you to view the photos, as words can’t describe it. KUDOS to this director for his wonderful stewardship of the funds he has been given!!!

ADDITIONAL NEEDS MET: – 2 local churches received cold medicine for their members – serving the local needy in the Dzerzhinsk community – providing funds for a new local church – visiting with friends, providing encouragement, clothing and aide where necessary

Facility Needs: All facilities can use funds for the “Go Bananas for Orphans” program

Artum Orphan Hospital: sterilization machine

Dzerzhinsk Internat: shoes, boots, coats, clothing, and personal care bags

Dzerzhinsk Orphanage: personal care bags, shoes, boots, slippers, and coats Norvgorosk Internat : personal care bags, shoes, boots, coats, and clothing for teens

Teremok Orthopedic Hospital: clothing and orthopedic equipment, $150.00 to continue diaper and juice program (we have funding through Dec.)

Aids facility: the needs of this facility are being fulfilled, thank you Amy B.

Our Children Orphanage: $200.00 monthly to continue the diaper and juice program

Donetsk Internat: Funds for personal hygiene products for girls – $80.00 monthly for 100 girls.

The Shelter: CLOTHING and SHOES (the turnover is every 30 months for this 75 bed facility)

“The Forgotten” – This facility provided a needs list, and several U.S. churches are working together on this list. Specifically, personal hygiene products have been requested. Funds are needed for this desperately needy facility.

Mental Hospital: Clothing, socks and slippers, funds for medicine ($40.00 monthly)

New Facility for the Homeless and former convicts: clothing (men’s 28-31 waist, sm/med shirts), funds for food, please see photos for what they eat

Up coming events for His Kids, Too!: – Continue to ship aide to Ukraine for distribution – His Kids, Too! Director will be speaking in Valdosta GA, and Fresno CA. bringing awareness to the plight of orphans – Spring workshop in Ukraine, if you are interested, drop us a note – Continue to assist Christian families with adoption services in Ukraine – Continue to provide adoption grants to adopting families, when funds are available – Continue to take the gospel of Christ to the lost souls of Ukraine, and encourage those in the brotherhood to persevere in the faith – Christmas bags for orphans – we have a group working on this, please drop a note if you are interested in taking part.

I would like to personally thank Peggy N., Erin F. and Walter Lee S. for their sacrificial giving on this trip. Their time, energy, prayers, and funds were awesome. We serve an amazing God, and He provides our every need. He continually opens doors to opportunities of service, and you continue to provide the financial support for these programs. Some situations are more desperate than others, and we pray for discernment. We covet your prayers and appreciate your encouragement, and continued support.

Sincerely,

Teresa Fillmon

Director/His Kids, Too!

His Kids, Too! Travel Report Summer 2005

 It was a joy to visit with friends, church members, orphans, directors, and many others, when the entire Fillmon family traveled to Ukraine for 4 weeks. We arrived safely, and were off by train to Dzerzhinsk. This trip was a combination humanitarian aid work, and conducting Bible camps. Over twenty two Americans descended on Dzerzhinsk in order to provide the love of Christ, and much needed aid. The children eagerly awaited our arrival, and we came with joyful expectations ready to sow the seeds of Jesus. There is a detailed list of distribution at the end of this report. We encourage you to review our website, www.hiskidstoo.org to review the Summer 2005 Photo Gallery.

The first 10 days of our trip we visited facilities and then we had the camp. Each day leading up to the camp was filled with the work of the Lord, visiting facilities, clothing children, ministering to presented needs, and teaching and encouraging the saints. We arrived in Dzershinsk greeted by thousands of pounds of aide for the 14 facilities that we are assisting. In just 4 days we distributed over 1000 lbs. of aide to hundreds of children.

The Bible Camp consisted of 2 camps, 1 at a local school, the other at the local Internat (Boarding School) for orphans. Eighty children were at each camp. Every child received a Russian Bible, and many gifts, and each day was filled with learning, singing, playing, and praying. We would like to extend special thanks to the Levy Church of Christ, of Little Rock, AR, for paying for all the meals at the Boarding School for the week of camp. The children were fed a morning snack, and a nice lunch (see the photo gallery).

In Dzerzhinsk, His Kids, Too! serves a local orphanage (50 +/- children), Artum Orphan Hospital (25+/- children), the local mental hospital (40 patients), the local Boarding School (school for 450 children, and home to 60+ orphans), a local group of disabled children (35), the Dzerzhinsk Church of Christ (40), and a Christian Church (140). We visited each facility, (many more than once) and aide was given. We are also serving 11 widows with monthly food bags, in addition to helping with the Donetsk feeding program (60 persons).

The Norvgorosk Internat is home to 55 orphans. This is a very poor facility and we have built a good relationship with the director and staff. She welcomed us warmly, and appreciated the orphanage assistance. The children were still wearing clothing from our last visit, and we could see other items we had previously donated. Stewardship is very important, but also, remembering that kids are very hard on toys, shoes, clothing, etc. We understand that most things will need replacing frequently.

In Donetsk, we visited Teremok Orthopedic Hospital (60 +/-), the Aids facility (130 children), Our Children Orphanage (150 +/-) and Internot #1. At each facility we were greeted warmly, and everyone was pleased with their gifts. We have some specific needs for these facilities, which will be listed below.

During the Bible camp, children were taught about, respect, honesty, prayer life, and life of Jesus. Evening classes were offered for all, and for the week after adult Bible classes were held. Several ladies classes were offered, studying practical Christian living, Ruth, resolving conflict with others, prayer, being ‘fruitful’ and much more. Attendance was good for these spiritual gatherings.

Donations and Needs: Below is listed the aide that was left at each facility, and their present needs.

Dzerzhinsk Boarding School: 3 sets of clothing per child, shoes, socks, personal care bags (soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush and paste, combs, hair clips for the girls, nail files, pencils, pens, stickers, chap stick), sheets, towels, toys/games, sport equipment, medicine, bananas and cookies. This facility hosted the Bible Camp and children were treated to prizes and gifts every day, and each received a Bible.

Needs: personal care bags (a constant need), shoes, 3x ointment, Band-Aids.

Dzerzhinsk Orphanage: 3+ sets of clothing per child, shoes, socks, toothbrushes and paste, large bottles of shampoo, soap, sheets, towels, toys/games, sport equipment, medicine, bananas and cookies. This facility had “Christmas in July” thanks to the students of Raa Middle School, see the Photo Gallery for photos). This facility is where the orphan church meet.

Needs: personal care bags, shoes (constant need)

Artum Baby Hospital: Blankets (thank you South Trail CoC), clothing, toys, busy boxes for cribs, medicine, bananas, cookies, and a special request: electronic blood pressure machine for children and the accompanying stethoscope. Special thanks to Neve and friends for the GREAT TOYS and clothing!

Needs: rubber pants for clothe diapers, diaper ointment.

Teremok Orthopedic Hospital: clothing, medicine (decongestant), bananas, cookies, and toys Needs: funds ($100.00 monthly) to continue juice program

Internot – Donetsk: 200 bottles of decongestant, and continue to supply feminine hygiene products for the girls.

Needs: Funds for feminine hygiene products for 75 girls. Cost $80.00 per month.

‘Our Children’ Orphanage: over 300 lbs.clothing (special thanks to Neve and her friends), blankets (thank you Mary Doederlein and South Trail Church of Christ), socks, busy boxes, and toys. 200 bottles of decongestant. We continue to serve these orphans with the juice and diaper program. Needs: Funds to continue existing programs ($200.00 monthly)

Norvgorosk Internat: 3 sets of clothing per child, socks, personal care bags, toys/games, sport equipment, medicine.

Needs: personal care bags, shoes, clothing, new mattresses ($500.00); computer to process paperwork ($500).

Mental Hospital: clothing for 40 patients, sleepwear for patients, underclothes, and blankets

Needs: funds for food program ($60.00 monthly)

Widows:11 local widows received their monthly food bags. Bags contain: sugar, rice, macaroni, flour, kasha, canned meat, tea, soap, toothbrush/paste and floss, pain reliever tablets, other personal items. Items do vary according to prices. His Kids, Too! has joined in the assistance of feeding 60 poor families in Donetsk. These combined efforts will cost $450.00 monthly to feed 71 people. Needs: Funds for the feeding program.

Home of the Forgotten Children: 350+ children/adults: 4-33 yrs. of age. Over 1000 lb. of new and gently used clothing was distributed. Special thanks to Guy Moore of Garnet and Gold for all the new clothing; personal care products (special thanks to students of Raa Middle School, Maranatha Christian School, Tallahassee Home Schoolers, Central Church of Christ Children's Bible classes and more. Toys for children. (Raa Middle School. Special thanks to Kids Expo, over 500 bottles of decongestant was distributed. Bananas and cookies to all the children and adults.

Needs for 300 + people/children: Funds to purchase mass medicines and syringes ($40.00 per box of 1000), plastic pants and pins as “children lie in their waste”, and Depends, plastic sheeting ($100.00), much needed PRAYER for the director and those in charge of this facility.

Dzerzhinsk Church of Christ (40) and a local Christian Church (140): Both of these wonderful churches were left boxes of new and gently used clothing, and over 100 bottles of decongestant. Needs: at this time, we can fulfill the needs of these 2 churches.

You may have noticed the number of times we took bananas and cookies to children. With an idea from volunteer Kristy Cates, His Kids, Too! has branched out with a new program to supply children with bananas (or seasonal fruit) to the children. Please click on the banana on the homepage to get more information on how we are “Go Bananas for Orphans! ” and how you can help provide fruit for orphans!

This trip also afforded the opportunity to visit the Christian Home we are trying to purchase. The big ‘plus’ at this point, is that the government officials have agreed to GIVE the building to us. The former kindergarten is in need of repairs, but is in a good country location, on the bus and electric train route. We covet your prayers for this transaction to occur soon.

The established cottage industry with many of the ladies in the church is going quite well. The children Ukrainian costumes, some with matching doll outfits available in the His Kids, Too! Gift Shop are selling well. All proceeds will go to these ladies which will give them an income. In addition, more items have been added to the Gift Shop!

This trip was a good one, but a difficult one. Our visit at the home of the Forgotten Children was very difficult, as our little girl Kristina had passed away. The staff at this facility are tender hearted, though the management is difficult, at best. We covet your prayers for a heart of mercy to these children and adults.

We also had the opportunity to pay our respects to our dear friend, translator, sister in Christ, Christina who passed away, at 19, on April 2. In Ukraine, each cemetery plot is surrounded by an iron fence, and it brought a smile to our faces to see hers painted appropriately in pink. Our only comfort is that she is resting in the Savior's arms.

One highlight of the trip was the weekly church services with orphans. Established by Yuri Yenataski in the spring of 2005, members of the local Church of Christ go each Sunday morning and meet with orphans (ages 3-18) and workers at a local orphanage. It was exciting to see the children reading their Bibles and joyfully singing beautiful songs to our Lord and Savior. Each time we saw the children, they would ask, “are you coming Sunday?” The workers too, were happy that we were coming, and eagerly welcomed us. We look forward with eager anticipation as this program grows. If you are interested in helping this program, the cost to provide weekly snacks, and transportation for the church members is $30 monthly.

Upcoming trips: Teresa will return to Ukraine in October, and will visit each of these facilities again; over 1000 lb. of winter aide await distribution in Ukraine. More is on the way. We thank each of you who support this work through your prayers, encouragement, and financial giving. Every dollar can make a difference. Lives are changing. To God be all the glory!

Sincerely,

Teresa Fillmon Director/His Kids, Too! www.hiskidstoo.org

His Kids Too, PMB #180, 3491 Thomasville Rd., Tallahassee, FL 32309 (850) 524-5437 www.hiskidstoo.org All Donations are tax deductible

Spring 2005 Travel Report

Our spring visit to Ukraine was different from any other visit and very busy. His Kids, Too! director, Teresa and her son, Dallas, accompanied her on the trip. Dallas has been serving orphans since 1999, and this was his 8th trip to Ukraine.

Our trip would consist of visiting the facilities that His Kids, Too! already is servicing, accessing new needs, visiting new facilities that have requested assistance, visiting with church members, and ministering to Christina, our translator, friend, and sister in Christ. After arriving, and visiting with Christina, our schedule changed, as our priorities for this trip changed. It was obvious that she was quite ill, and time needed to be allocated to assist her and minister to her. We were blessed to have enough time to visit 9 facilities, accommodating them with clothing, personal hygiene bags, toys, blankets, hats, scarves, shoes, medical supplies and much more.

We arrived in snowy Dzerzhinsk and work was waiting for us. Thousands of pounds of aide that had been sent prior to our trip waited to be sorted for distribution. Ray, Lynn, and our new board member, Denis, were all there to assist with the sorting. The 2 weeks that followed we visited the facilities listed below, visiting well over 1000 children and many adults. We put clothing on children (when allowed), provided a hug or comfort when needed, visited with the older teens, and mentally challenged citizens. Many offered ‘needs’ lists for their continued needs, which is below if your heart feels the needs to assist in this ministry. Without your assistance we cannot possibly reach the thousands of people who need help, care and the message of Christ. We thank you in advance for your assistance.

Facility distributions:

Artum Orphan Hospital: Baby blankets (thank you Andrea B.), stockings, knitted hats, and booties, mattresses, lotion, q-tips, Destin ointment, baby shampoo, busy boxes (thank you Kennette), toys, sleepers, 200 clothe diapers (thank you Walter Steely), diaper pins, and electronic scales

Dzerzhinsk Internat (110 orphans, 465 children): stockings, socks, hats, gloves, scarves (thank you Frieda H.), clothing, shampoo, toothpaste, personal care bags.

Dzerzhinsk Orphanage (45 kids): clothing, socks, shampoo, toothpaste.

The Norvgorosk Internat is home to 50 orphans: Personal care bags for all children, clothing, stockings, markers, books, shampoo, toothpaste, toys and games (thank you Raa Middle School)

Teremok Orthopedic Hospital (60 +/-): 200 cloth diapers (thank you Walter Steely), clothing, toys, hats, and gloves

Aids facility (130 children): 200 clothe diapers (Thank you Walter Steely), 25 blankets (thank you Frieda, Andrea, Zula), clothing, knitted caps and booties, Destin cream

Our Children Orphanage (150 +/-): 20 blankets, knitted hats and booties, stockings, toys (thank you Jody Glenn), Destin cream, clothing, on-going juice and diaper program

The ‘Forgotten’ Facility (working from a provided list) 325 patients: clothing, hats, and cookies and apples

Mental Hospital (60 patients): Clothing, socks

Local Allergy Hospital: Large quantity of allergy medications (thank you Ellen D.)

Community Outreach in Dzerzhinsk: Over 200 lbs of clothing were provided for needy families via Yuri Y.

Old Folks Home: Time did not permit us to visit this facility, but we left 3 large boxes (clothing, blankets, checkers/puzzles/cards, medicine) for later distribution. Thank you Ellen D. for the warm scarves and lap blankets. The Shelter: Time did not permit us to get to this facility, but 3 boxes of clothing, shoes, toys (thank you Raa Middle School), toothpaste and other items, were left for later distribution. Also, clothing soap, bar soap, shampoo and lotion were purchased and taken to the facility.

Facility Needs:

ALL facilities for children 5-18 and adults need dark socks or $300. to purchase in country

Artum Orphan Hospital: need plastic pants for diapers

Dzerzhinsk Internat: personal care bags, sheets ($500.00 in country purchase for 3 facilities)

Dzerzhinsk Orphanage: personal care bags, shoes, slippers

Norvgorosk Internat – 50 orphans: personal care bags, shoes, globes for class rooms, and large maps, and clothing for teens

Teremok Orthopedic Hospital (60 +/-): clothing and orthopedic equipment, $150.00 to continue diaper and juice program Aids facility -130 children: sheets (purchase in country), need plastic pants, $100.00 for diaper and juice program

Our Children Orphanage (150 +/-): $200.00 monthly to continue the diaper and juice program

Donetsk Internat: Funds for personal hygiene products for girls – $80.00 monthly for 100 girls.

The Shelter: CLOTHING and SHOES (the turnover is every 30 months for this 75 bed facility)

 “The Forgotten” – This facility provided a needs list, and several U.S. churches are working together on this list. Funds are needed for this desperately needy facility.

Mental Hospital (60 patients): Clothing, socks and slippers, funds for medicine ($40.00 monthly)

Donetsk Home for the Elderly – 70 clients 70 – 95 yrs. of age: A new facility for us: Night gowns, men’s P.J.’s, slippers, socks, magnifying glasses, personal care bags, clothing, checkers, chess, walkers and toilet chairs Unfortunately due to running back and forth to Dzerzhinsk and Donetsk, and that Teresa got very ill on the trip, sadly we were unable to have lady’s Bible classes. The ladies understood, but it has always been a practice on each trip.

NEW DEVELOPMENTS:

His Kids, Too! became a registered charity in Ukraine

His Kids, Too! obtained their 501c3 renewal from the U.S. government

His Kids, Too! is in the process of purchasing a kindergarten to renovate for a Christian Children’s Home, we need your help. Please contact us for a DVD on this project.

Denis Lapin was added as a board member.

Up coming events for His Kids, Too!:

Continue to ship aide to Ukraine for distribution

Greeting cards are now on sale in the Gift Shop. All artwork by orphans.

Continue to assist Christian families with adoption services in Ukraine

Continue to provide adoption grants to adopting families, when funds are available

Continue to take the gospel of Christ to the lost souls of Ukraine, and encourage those in the brotherhood to persevere in the faith

We continue to be amazed at the power of the living God we serve. He continually opens doors to opportunities of service, and you continue to provide the financial support for these programs. Some situations are more desperate than others, and we pray for discernment. We are sad to report that Christina passed away April 2, 2005. Services were held at the Polatarsky Church of Christ on April 4. We are so thankful for her Godly life, love, smiles, and hugs. She loved orphans, and shared that love with so many. We covet your prayers and appreciate your encouragement, and continued support.

Sincerely,

Teresa Fillmon Director/His Kids, Too!

Our fall visit to Ukraine was exciting and very busy. We were pleased to have 2 additional sets of hands with us, as a couple accompanied me from Minnesota. Dave and Fami D. have plans to adopt a little girl from Russia, but had the desire to go and serve and orphans and widows prior to their adoption.

Our trip would consist of visiting the facilities that His Kids, Too! already is servicing, accessing new needs, visiting new facilities that have requested assistance, meeting with board His Kids, Too! board members, visiting with church members, and teaching ladies Bible class when possible and meeting with 3 adopting families. All these goals were met (except we only met with 2 families as the other had already departed), and we were blessed to have enough clothing for 50 needy families in the community.

We arrived in Dzerzhinsk and work was waiting for us. Thousands of pounds of aide that had been sent prior to our trip waited to be sorted for distribution. We were thrilled to have some church members available to assist us in this huge endeavor. Fami and Dave had brought supplies for personal care bags, and those were also assembled for distribution. The 2 weeks that followed we visited the facilities listed below, visiting well over 1000 children and hundreds of adults. We put clothing on children (when allowed), provided a hug or comfort when needed, visited with the older teens, and senior citizens. The Lord impressed upon us the great need for discernment and gentle care for all these in need. Many offered ‘needs’ lists for their continued needs, which is below if your heart feels the needs to assist in this ministry. Without your assistance we cannot possibly reach the thousands of people who need help, care and the message of Christ. We thank you in advance for your assistance.

Facility distributions:

Artum Orphan Hospital: Baby blankets (thank you Andrea B.), stockings, knitted hats, and booties, sheets, mattresses, lotion, q-tips, Destin ointment, baby shampoo, busy boxes (thank you Kennette), toys, sleepers, clothe diapers (thank you Freida H.); 200 masks, and other medical equipment (thank you Ginny W.)

Dzerzhinsk Internat (100 orphans, 435 children): stockings, socks, hats, gloves, scarves (thank you Freida H.), clothing, shampoo, toothpaste, markers, and crayons, sporting equipment

Dzerzhinsk Orphanage (23 kids): clothing, socks, shampoo, toothpaste, markers, crayon books, stockings, sport equipment (Stewardship is a problem at this facility)

The Norvgorosk Internat is home to 50 orphans: Personal care bags for all children, clothing, stockings, sports equipment, markers, books, shampoo, toothpaste

Teremok Orthopedic Hospital (60 +/-): clothing, toys, and stockings

Aids facility (130 children): jumpers for 130 children, 25 blankets (thank you Freida, Andrea, Zula), clothing, knitted caps and booties, Destin cream, flannel sheet material (they will make sheets)

Our Children Orphanage (150 +/-): 30 mattresses, 30 blankets, 30 sheets, 30 liners (we stocked the new wing), knitted hats and booties, stockings, toys, Destin cream, clothing, on-going juice and diaper program

Donetsk Internat: Funds for personal hygiene products for girls – $80.00 monthly for 100 girls.

The Shelter: 3 big boxes of clothing, blankets (we will start working with this facility again)

The ‘Forgotten’ Facility (working from a provided list) 305 patients: teapots, large washbasins, spoons, trays clothing, hats, socks, and a very large quantity of medicine, cookies and bananas

Mental Hospital (60 patients): Clothing, socks

Donetsk Home for the Elderly: This was our first visit to this facility, and didn’t know what they needed. We have forwarded back some items, but will be shipping items for this facility. Your help is greatly needed for these deserving seniors!

Donetsk Feeding Program: This program started with 50 people, 2 have died (from age), and 3 are involved with one on one Bible studies. We have had one baptism so far. The program has been expanded to 60. A huge thanks to Peter P. for his generous donation to this program! Refrigerator to a member of the Donetsk feeding program. Hospital visitation to another member.

Dzerzhinsk Feeding Program: This program has been down scaled to 10 from its 25. More community outreach will begin in spring with the addition of 15 communities poor. Thank you to Peter P. for his support of this program.

Community Outreach in Dzerzhinsk: Over 200 lbs of clothing were provided for 50 families

Facility Needs: (Items marked * are in route to Ukraine for distribution)

Artum Orphan Hospital: clothe diapers and pins*, need plastic pants

Dzerzhinsk Internat: shoes, boots, coats, clothing, and personal care bags, sheets ($500.00 in country purchase for 3 facilities)

Dzerzhinsk Orphanage: personal care bags, shoes, boots, slippers, and coats

Norvgorosk Internat – 50 orphans: personal care bags, shoes, boots, coats, and clothing for teens

Teremok Orthopedic Hospital (60 +/-): clothing and orthopedic equipment, $150.00 to continue diaper and juice program

Aids facility -130 children: sheets (purchase in country) – $200.00, cloth diapers and pins*, need plastic pants, $100.00 for diaper and juice program

Our Children Orphanage (150 +/-): $200.00 monthly to continue the diaper and juice program

Donetsk Internat: Funds for personal hygiene products for girls – $80.00 monthly for 100 girls.

The Shelter: CLOTHING and SHOES (the turnover is every 30 months for this 75 bed facility)

“The Forgotten” – This facility provided a needs list, and several U.S. churches are working together on this list. Funds are needed for this desperately needy facility.

Mental Hospital (60 patients): Clothing, socks and slippers, funds for medicine ($40.00 monthly)

Donetsk Home for the Elderly – 70 clients 70 – 95 yrs. of age: A new facility for us: Night gowns, men’s P.J.’s, slippers, socks, magnifying glasses, personal care bags, clothing, checkers, chess, walkers and toilet chairs

Up coming events for His Kids, Too!:
Continue to ship aide to Ukraine for distribution
His Kids, Too! Director will be speaking at Samford University to bring awareness to the plight of orphans
Completion of greeting card project – cards are now on sale in the Gift Shop. All artwork by orphans.
Continue to assist Christian families with adoption services in Ukraine
Continue to provide adoption grants to adopting families, when funds are available
Continue to take the gospel of Christ to the lost souls of Ukraine, and encourage those in the brotherhood to persevere in the faith

We continue to be amazed at the power of the living God we serve. He continually opens doors to opportunities of service, and you continue to provide the financial support for these programs. Some situations are more desperate than others, and we pray for discernment. We covet your prayers and appreciate your encouragement, and continued support.

Sincerely,
Teresa Fillmon
Director/His Kids, Too!

On this visit to Ukraine, we were able to travel to 5 cities and provide aide to thousands of children. It was a joy to visit with friends, church members, orphans, directors, and many others. The entire Fillmon family traveled to Ukraine for 3 weeks. We arrived safely, and were off by train to Dzerzhinsk. This trip was a combination humanitarian and Bible camp, as 27+ Americans descended on Dzerzhinsk. The children eagerly awaited our arrival, and we came with joyful expectations ready to sow the seeds of Jesus. There is a detailed list of distribution at the end of this report. We encourage you to review our website, www.hiskidstoo.org to see the Summer Photo Gallery.

The Bible Camp consisted or 2 camps, 1 at a local school, the other at the local Internat (Boarding School) for orphans. Eighty children were at each camp. Every child received a Russian Bible, and each day was filled with learning, singing, playing, and praying. The first 10 days of our trip we visited facilities and then we had the camp. Our shipment had arrived (see Photo Gallery) in Crimea, but had problems with customs, and the would not be released until Thursday into the camp. Teachers were busy trying to pull together craft supplies, and in the end it all worked out, but it was fairly frantic. The kids didn’t seem to notice, until the supplies did come and then they realized the difference. A major portion of your humanitarian aide was in the shipment, thus making the last days in Dzerzhinsk quite busy with distribution. In just 4 days we distributed over 1000 lbs. of aide. We were blessed to make an agreement with the director of the local Internat that educates 460 children, and is home to over 70 children, that she allow us to set up a ‘clothing closet’ in a room where we could bring children to fit them with clothing. We not only serve the orphans, but many of the very poor students. Additionally in Dzerzhinsk, His Kids, Too! serves a local orphanage (50 +/- children), Artum Orphan Hospital (25+/- children), and the local mental hospital (40 patients). Each of these facilities was visited and aide given. We are also serving 25 widows with monthly food bags, in addition to helping with the Donetsk feeding program (50 persons).

The Norvgorosk Internat is home to 45 orphans. This very poor facility and we have built a good relationship with the new director. She welcomed us warmly, and appreciated the orphanage assistance. The children were still wearing clothing from our last visit, and we could see other items we had previously donated. Stewardship is very important, but also, remembering that kids are very ‘hard’ on toys, shoes, clothing, etc. We understand that most things will need replacing frequently. The Artemivsk Baby Home was a new facility in Spring for His Kids, Too! This facility is home to 120 children between the ages of 0 and 4 yrs. old. This visit brought us on the first day that the new director and new chief doctor were at the facility. Our friend Natasha was there, and was a great help with introductions. WE were able to see all the children, and talked about the aide that they need and the future assistance that we will provide.

In Donetsk, we visited Teremok Orthopedic Hospital (60 +/-), the Aids facility (130 children), and Our Children Orphanage (150 +/-). Each facility we were greeted warmly, and everyone was pleased with their gifts. We have some specific needs for these facilities, which will be listed below. We also visited the City Baby Home, where we needed to drop off a gift, and provide fruit for 120 children. This trip took us to a new facility. Traveling 2 hours from our base in Dzerzhinsk, we went to the facility that Ukraine ‘houses’ their most disabled children and adults. We made 2 trips to this facility, where ‘the Forgotten’ live. These people live in deplorable conditions, and are warehoused until they die. We forewarn you, the photos in the photo gallery are difficult to look at, but depict the true images of this place. Their needs are listed below. Each night while in Dzerzhinsk ladies Bible classes were offered. Attendance was good for the classes, with an average of 20 ladies each evening. After a discussion with the ladies, it was decided that they wanted to study the Parables.

Donations and Needs:

Dzerzhinsk Internat: clothing, shoes, socks, personal care bags (soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush and paste, combs, hair clips for the girls, nail files, pencils, pens, stickers, chap stick), sheets, towels, toys/games, and sport equipment, medicine.
Needs: personal care bags, shoes, facility needs repairs ($400.00), 3x ointment, Band-Aids.

Dzerzhinsk Orphanage: clothing, shoes, socks, toothbrushes and paste, large bottles of shampoo, soap, sheets, towels, toys/games, sport equipment, medicine.
Needs: personal care bags, shoes (constant need)

Artum Baby Hospital: Blankets, sheets, clothing, toys, busy boxes for cribs, medicine.
Needs: clothe diapers (pins and rubber pants), ‘busy boxes’, and crib mobiles, diaper ointment.

Teremok Orthopedic Hospital: clothing, medicine, and toys
Needs: specialized equipment for CP children, funds ($100.00 monthly) to continue juice program

New Hospital: 50 new wool blankets
Needs: mattresses, sheets, pillow cases (they have, but need new ones), cost for all for 50 beds: $250.00.

City Baby Home – Donetsk: 20 kilos of bananas, personal gifts for workers and a specific child.

Internot – Donetsk:
Needs: Funds for feminine hygiene products for 75 girls. Cost $160.00 per month.

‘Our Children’ Orphanage: clothing, blankets, socks, busy boxes, and toys, medicine, knitted hats, 20 kilos of bananas, plates and cups. We continue to serve these orphans with the juice and diaper program.
Needs: Funds to continue existing programs ($200.00 monthly), 30 mattresses, sheets, and plastic lining for their new wing ($500.00); baby clothing, ‘busy boxes’ and mobiles for cribs.

Artemivsk Baby Home: knitted baby hats, blankets, and toys for every child. Needs: clothe diapers (pins, and rubber pants), shoes Norvgorosk Internat: clothing, socks, personal care bags, sheets, towels, toys/games, sport equipment, medicine
Needs: personal care bags, shoes, facility needs repairs ($500.00), clothing, new mattresses ($500.00). computer to process paperwork ($500.00), globes and wall maps.

Mental Hospital: 40 sheets, socks, clothing for 40 patients, sleepwear for patients, underclothes.
Needs: funds for food program ($60.00 monthly)

Widows – 25 local widows received their monthly food bags. His Kids, Too! has joined in the assistance of feeding 50 poor families in Donetsk. These combined efforts will cost $450.00 monthly to feed 75 people. Needs: Funds for the feeding program.

The New Invalid Facility: 350+ children/adults: 4-28 yrs. of age. Clothing, personal care products, soap, socks, medicine, 500 bars of soap, laundry detergent, Pampers, underclothes, 300 cups, wheelchair, crutches, 9 buckets, 9 tea kettles, new Dr. coats, sport equipment, sheets, 4 Potty chairs (thank you Dr. Wharton!), toys, busy boxes for cribs, and toothbrushes.
Needs: for 300+ people/children: Funds to purchase mass medicines and syringes ($40.00 per box of 1000), 200 personal care bags for teen/adult residents, sheets ($400.00), towels ($250.00), blankets ($2000.00), laundry soap ($100.00), **cloth diapers** (plastic pants and pins – children lie in their waste), ‘Depends’, plastic sheeting ($100.00), 6 busy boxes, 10 baby walkers ($120.00 all).

A cottage industry was established with many of the ladies in the church. Now available in the His Kids, Too! Gift Shop are children’s Ukrainian costumes, some with matching doll outfits. All proceeds will go to these ladies which will provide them with an income.

This trip was a good one, but a difficult one. Our visit at the new facility was overwhelming. God gave us strength and vision to help these unfortunate, but precious souls. Teresa will return to Ukraine in October, and will visit each of these facilities again; over 500 lbs. of winter aide await distribution in Ukraine. More is on the way. We thank each of you who support this work through your prayers, encouragement, and financial giving. Every dollar can make a difference. Lives are changing.

To God be all the glory!

Sincerely,

Teresa Fillmon
Director/His Kids, Too!

On this visit we were able to travel to 4 cities and provide aide to hundreds of children during my recent trip to Ukraine.  It was a joy to visit with friends, church members, orphans, directors, and many others.  Teresa Fillmon, Director of His Kids, Too! and 13 yr. old daughter Haley, traveled to Ukraine for 2 weeks in March.   We arrived safely and met our almost 2000 lbs. of humanitarian aide, waiting in Dzerzhinsk for distribution.  There is a detailed list of distribution at the end of this report.  We encourage you to review our website, www.hiskidstoo.org to review the Spring Photo Gallery.

Though much of the aide was sorted, we had the task of preparing each night for the next day’s deliveries. We were blessed to make an agreement with the director of the local Internot that educates 460 children, and is home to over 70 children, that she would accept the deliveries and store the aide until my visits.  This was a big blessing, as the aide is presently sent to another location and then is trucked to the Internot for distribution, since this is one the largest facilities His Kids, Too! assists.  We not only serve the orphans, but many of the very poor students.   Additionally in Derzhinsk, His Kids, Too! serves a local orphanage (50 +/- children), Orphan Hospital (25+/- children), and the local mental hospital (40 patients).  Each of these facilities was visited and given aide.  We are also serving 25 widows with monthly food bags.

The Norvgorosk Internot is home to 43 orphans.  This very poor facility has changed directors since our last visit, and the new director welcomed out assistance, just as the previous one.  The children were still wearing clothing from our last visit, and we could see other items we had previously donated.  Stewardship is very important, but also, remembering that kids are very hard on toys, shoes, clothing, etc.  We understand that most things will need replacing frequently.

The Artemivsk Baby Home was a new facility for His Kids, Too!  This facility is home to 120 children between the ages of 0 and 4 yrs. old.  The director was delightful, and very open to receiving assistance, though this facility was one of the nicest I have seen in Ukraine.  We will assess the needs and see what is truly needed.  Special thanks to Ira who traveled with us to this facility and made all the introductions. 

In Donetsk, we visited Teremok Orthopedic Hospital (60 +/-), a new hospital facility, and Our Children Orphanage (150 +/-).  Each facility we were greeted warmly, and everyone was pleased with their gifts.  We have some specific needs for these facilities, which will be listed below.

Each night while in Dzerzhinsk, ladies Bible classes were offered.  Attendance was good for the classes, with an average of 20 ladies each evening.  Topics that were studied ranged from:  The Beatitudes, Christ as our Foundation, Romans 12, and Philippians 2. 

Donations and Needs:
Dzerzhinsk Internot :  clothing, shoes, socks, personal care bags (soap, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush and paste, combs, hair clips for the girls, nail files, pencils, pens, stickers, chap stick), sheets, towels, toys/games, and sport equipment, medicine.  Needs: shoes, facility needs repairs ($300.00)

Dzerzhinsk Orphanage :  clothing, shoes, socks, personal care bags (see above for contents), sheets, towels, toys/games, sport equipment, medicine.  Needs:  shoes

Artum Baby Hospital :  Blankets, sheets, stockings, clothing, toys, busy boxes for cribs, medicine.  Needs:  cloth diapers (pins and rubber pants), ‘busy boxes’, crib mobiles, and baby clothing.

Teremok Orthopedic Hospital :  clothing, medicine, and toys  (this facility has 16 wheelchairs in route along with other equipment ) Needs :  specialized equipment for CP children, funds ($100.00 monthly) to continue juice program

New Hospital :  50 new wool blankets   Needs :  mattresses, sheets, pillow cases (they have, but need new ones)

Our Children Orphanage :  clothing, blankets, cloth diapers (pins and pants), socks, busy boxes, and toys, medicine, knitted hats.  We continue to serve these orphans with the juice and diaper program.  Needs:    Funds to continue existing programs ($200.00 monthly), 30 mattresses, sheets, and plastic lining for their new wing ($500.00); baby clothing, ‘busy boxes’ and mobiles for cribs.

Artemivsk Baby Home :  crib mattresses, crib sheets, knitted baby hats, blankets, toys for every child, new stuffed animals, 2 food grinders.  Needs:   cloth diapers (pins, and rubber pants), shoes, electric food processors (2 – $100.00 each – could not find in the town)

Norvgorosk Internot:  clothing, socks, personal care bags, sheets, towels, toys/games, sport equipment, medicine  Needs:   shoes, facility needs repairs ($500.00), clothing, new mattresses ($500.00).  computer to process paperwork ($500.00).

Mental Hospital :  65 sheets, socks.  Needs :  clothing (coming in container for summer), funds for food program ($60.00  monthly)

Widows – 25 local widows received their monthly food bags.  His Kids, Too! has joined in the assistance of feeding 50 poor families in Donetsk.  These combined efforts will cost $450.00 monthly.  Needs :  Funds for the feeding program.

It goes without saying that this work could not continue without your assistance.  We thank each of you who support this work through your prayers, encouragement, and financial giving.  Every dollar can make a difference.  You are changing lives.  To God be all the glory!

Sincerely,
Teresa Fillmon Director/His Kids, Too!
www.hiskidstoo.org

Dear Friends, Family and many supporters of His Kids, Too!,

I have returned home from my recent Fall trip to Ukraine. The trip was a complete success on all aspects. Children received many necessary items to make their lives more fulfilling, and the gospel of Jesus Christ was taught to many.

Our goals for the trip were:
1. Distribute thousands of pounds of humanitarian aide that had been shipped to Ukraine prior to the trip.
2. Meet with to access and decide what items needed to be purchased for each facility (and then purchase those items).
3. Meet with the directors of the 9 facilities that we are working in.
4. Feed widows, and organize the program to continue in my absence.
5. Teach the gospel to a many people as possible.
6. Meet with an official of the National Adoption Center.

I arrived in cold Ukraine on Saturday and then took the train out to the Donetsk oblast. Sunday was a great day of worship, and a time to see dear friends. Monday I ‘hit the ground running’, as time was short, and I had many places to visit. Visited 3 facilities (and over 300 children) that day, making accessments and then off to make purchases. I had picked up sheets and towels that were ordered prior to my arrival, and they were ready for distribution. After several days of purchasing, I returned to these 3 facilities and delivered items. There were still many places to visit, people to see, and items to be purchased and distributed.

I spent Thursday, Friday and Sat. morning in Donetsk visiting several orphanages (and hundreds of children) and hospitals there. Since we know all these folks, they were waiting for us, and were ready with their needs. Friday was spent shopping and delivering. I would be returning on the following Tuesday, as Our Children (the facility that Alla was in), insisted that I attend their fall performance of ‘saying good bye to fall’, and welcoming winter. I would return and bring more items they requested, that were still back in Dzerzhinsk.

Returning to Dzerzhinsk, Saturday afternoon I stopped and made all the purchases for the widow baskets, and, several ladies met at the church building to put together the widow baskets, for Sunday distribution. Sunday, was a great day of worship and visiting again with friends. All the food baskets were distributed, and it was decided and organized that the local church would continue this program, and funds were left for the next 5 months, as I will return in March.

Monday I was back at the Dz. Internot (Boarding School), meeting with the children and the director. It was such a joy to see these folks, as they are so gracious and thankful for your many gifts. The kids just ‘light’ up when they see me coming, as they know that they will get some token of love from someone in America. We will continue to support this facility which is home to over 100 orphans, but a school to over 450 children. Just down the road is the local orphanage, housing 50 +/- kids, and then the mental health hospital, housing 40 patients (the government has reduced this number from 60 to 40, due to lack of funding). We presented each facility with sheets, towels, clothing, and much needed medical supplies. Orphanages received the same, in addition to, games, puzzles, toys, sport equipment, and much more. Some was given now, and some was put away for Christmas gifts. Church members will assure this distribution. By late after noon, I made it back to the Artum Hospital, where our dear friend, Svetlana was there. She greeted us as we distributed new mattresses, crib sheets, toys, clothing, and medicine. They were very appreciative, but we still need more crib mobiles, or ‘busy boxes’, as these little ones just lie there alone in the room. It is quite sad, but with your help, we could change this.

Tuesday, I was back to Donetsk to see the performance. There was quite a crowd and several other Ukrainian charities there in the audience. It was a pleasure to meet with these folks after the performance, getting acquainted and finding out more about what they are doing, and how we can work cooperatively together. Additionally, it was a joy to see local Ukrainians helping ‘their own’. Returning to Dzerzhinsk, we stopped at 4 facilities dropping off purchased ‘goods’ from Donetsk. It made for a long day, but well worth it.

Wednesday, I woke to snow. The day was spent back in Dzerzhinsk visiting city officials and other business meetings, and returning to 3 facilities to say our good-byes’, and drop off some clothing that we had left over.

Friday morning arriving in Kyiv, I met with our wonderful facilitator, and we went to the National Adoption Center for our scheduled meeting. That went very well, and we were able to get many of our questions, and questions from others answered. They were pleased that we were diligently trying to find homes for special needs children, along with older children.

Each night I taught Bible classes to the many ladies of the local church. Lessons were on, the Holy Spirit, Unity in the Church, Service to Others, Loving the Unlovable, and our service project was repackaging the food, filling the bags, and distribution of the food bags to 30 widows and poor families. It was truly a blessing and joy to be back with friends.

Our goals for the trip were met, and exceeded, thanks to so many of you. I will travel again to Ukraine in mid. March. A 1000 lb. shipment will be going out early December. Donations are still being accepted, especially for Crib Mobiles, ‘busy boxes’, Loom weaving kits (this was a special request from a CP foundation in Ukraine), boots (in all sizes), funds to continue the diaper program ($300.00 per month), juice program ($200.00 per month). We hope that you will consider sponsoring a program for the year 2004, or making a purchase from our Gift Shop for your holiday gift giving. All proceeds go to benefit these programs.

It is always hard to travel to Ukraine for several reasons, but in particular it is hard to see the plight of the people and children. It is hard to see so many needs and so little time and money to help such hard working, deserving people. Thanks be to God for the continuous support of so many of you. Our lives in the U.S. are so enriched, and we are so blessed. Thank you for your help, words of encouragement, support and prayers as we continue to serve the orphans, widows, and others in need, in Ukraine. May God Bless you!

Sincerely,
Teresa Fillmon
Director, His Kids, Too!