12 August 2005

Bonn, Germany: UN Volunteers donated very big-heartedly to the Mercy and Sharing Orphanage in Tabarre 16, collecting the equivalent of just over $600 in US dollars and gourdes. The orphanage caters for over 60 children some of whom are terminally ill or disabled. Children as young as one year old live in the centre as they become too old for the baby unit and some children have been abandoned. Indoor space is in short supply at the home with bunk beds filling the small rooms.

On the UNV 9th June training day of twelve volunteers visited and played with the children, and bringing sweets, biscuits chocolates, small toys, crayons and rolls of paper drawing. We chose to ask the centre what their needs are rather than just spending the money on toys. They requested baby milk powder, protein and vitamin food supplements and baby rice. We bought basket balls and footballs and space-hoppers. Also further donations were given from Alex Maizuradze (baby drinking cups) and Comcel (cuddly toys) which we have delivered to the home too.

On behalf of the UN Volunteer Support we would like to thank Robert who is the director of all of the Mercy and Sharing Homes across Haiti and also to Alexandra and Nirva for their help at the orphanage at Tabarre 16. Many thanks for your generous contributions and we hope to arrange further trips in the not-too-distant future, if any volunteers are interested? Donations can still
made to the Support Unit and we will ensure all the money is spent wisely on the children.