There are probably hundreds of stories like this and many even worse. While we know that we cannot possibly fix or change every one of these issues in Russia (Yet!), we know that we can start by addressing some of them.

For now, we are centering our efforts in the Ivanovo region.

We have a very good support network in place because we have had the opportunity to meet pastors and parishioners in several local churches.
We have some good, close, and dear friends in this region who willingly, even eagerly, help us out when we are in Russia.

We have also met and worked with several of the areas orphanage directors and their staff. Thus, this region provides a good 'jumping off place' from which we hope to expand and grow.

We seek first to help meet the physical needs of these children by supplying for some of their basic needs. In the past we have collected shoes and clothes, simple medical supplies (IE. children's medicines and bandaging) hygiene supplies (Tooth paste and brushes, soap and the like), and school supplies (Pencils/Pens, etc.) that we take and distribute to the children's homes ourselves. However, recent changes to airline baggage restrictions has limited our ability to carry supplies to Russia with us. Shipping costs have also proven to be prohibitive. As a result, we rely more heavily on collecting donations to buy food and the supplies listed above. Also, we use these funds to help meet special, specific needs such as a Water heater, washing machine repair or replacement, school books, etc.

Even more important to us is that this fulfillment of need allows us the opportunity to enter these orphanages and share our faith, and the message of love, hope and salvation with the children and staff of the facilities. This is our primary goal.

> The How...