Ukraine Outreach Newsletter #1

We had some travel problems but our team are here and working with the kids.  Monday we met some of the children and prepared for our week of crafts, songs and games.  Tuesday was a full day with the children.  If you look at our photo galleries (click here), you will see we started our Tuesday program with making pictures.  The children have such basic skills that it is a challenge for them to use crayons, pens and pencils.  Many of the kids liked to use the stickers so they made their pictures from just stickers.  As you may know, we have hired a teacher to work with the kids for a couple hours each day.  Her hard work is showing some results.  One of our team members is a teacher and she was sharing with us that the kids are showing verbal and writing skills.  We are so excited that the early beginnings of an education process is now being formed.

Wednesday’s children’s program is just about to begin.  We will report more in 24 hours and post many new pictures.  

We thought you would like to know some quick project updates...

• As you look through the pictures, you will notice the new outside patio/floor is completed.  We are now using this floor for our daily programs.  We are so blessed to have several of you donate to this project.  The Soup Kitchen staff said it is such a blessing to have a place for the kids to play without getting muddy.  The new patio also allows for more kids to join our program as space has been limited.  Its hard to believe a patio/floor could bring so much joy.

• Please forgive us as it has been a real challenge finding internet service in this village.  We now found a place and will update you with 4 more days of news letters and photos so stay tuned.

• We also want you to know that we do plan to give out the back packs but are waiting to do this at the end of the trip so the kids can leave safely without losing them and the church requested we wait so that all the kids get their back packs at one time.

• If you have any questions, you can email Vendy at teamgypsykids@gmail.com

Thank you for your support!  It is amazing for our team to see your contributions at work here in Mukachevo.  We hope you enjoy the photos.