Chernobyl ten years on

THE Mid Essex group of the Chernobyl Children's Project will welcome children from
the Ukraine into their homes and hearts for the tenth successive year on July 6.

The children, who come to England with the project, will be given four weeks of healthy food in an environment free from the toxins and stresses of their normal environment.

Organiser Revd Keith Plaister says: "We bring them over at a time when the radioactive dust is at its
worst. Here they stay, two per home, with host families who have them for two weeks
before they move on to a second host family.

"During the four weeks many of the hosts and helpers stay involved, supporting each other and
the children. On many of the days group activities are arranged.

"We are fortunate to have friends of the group who offer pools, canal boats, organise
games and activities. We ice-skate, sail, pond dip and visit the seaside - a true first for many of the children."

But Keith says that the project are still hoping for more volunteer families. Keith adds: "There are many ways in which you might be able to share the load. Perhaps you could offer an activity or transport, help
to obtain the vitamin pills that the children are sent home with or, help to provide the much enjoyed fresh fruit & vegetables - yes, these children cannot get enough of them!

"We need to raise money to ensure that others can come in 2008. Do you have ideas for this?

"We have a clothes bank as the children often come over with very little. Perhaps you have items in good
condition that they can wear? These children are always grateful for used clothing.

"Feedback from Chernobyl tells us how much this respite care and the knowledge that their children are being cared for, means to their parents. If you feel that you would like to give just a little of your
time either when the children are here or to raise money or goods, then contact Keith on 01245 472262.

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