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In 1986 the Chernobyl power plant in the Ukraine blew up. 70% of the radiation contamination was deposited in the southern regions of Belarus, the country just to the north of Ukraine. Even today, everything the people of Belarus touch is contaminated: the air, water, food, everything. Research has shown that six weeks away from the contaminated region can extend a child’s life by two years.
FAQ’s:
1. What are my responsibilities?
You need to make sure that you provide a clean, safe environment for the child to live in. You must make sure that the child is at all doctor and dentist appointments.
2. Do I have to pay for the medical visits?
No. The coordinator will arrange for free physical and vision check-ups. You will be asked to see if your dentist is willing to see the child free of charge. If they are not, another dentist will be found for you.
3. Can I take them away for a vacation?
Yes. You can take the child anywhere in the continental U.S. You just need to let the chaperone know where you will be and how to reach you.
4. Can I request a particular child?
Yes. Children can be requested by name if you know it. Or, you can request by gender, age, orphan or non-orphan. Non-orphans can be much more needy than orphans in that the family may have a very low income. Orphans in Belarus can be quite well traveled. Also, if you don’t want a child that has previously been to the U.S., you should check that box.
5. If I get an orphan, can I adopt him/her?
Absolutely not. ABRO is not an adoption agency and does not deal with such. Truthfully, the country of Belarus makes out of country adoptions very difficult, if not impossible.
6. How much does it cost?
If you attend Spring Hill, the airfare is paid from the missions budget. The children usually don’t come with much so you will probably need to buy them a few clothes. You do not need to go overboard in this area. It is requested that you send them home with some school supplies, toiletries, and maybe some cold weather clothes. All of that is up to you. The main thing you are supplying is your love and your home for six weeks.
For more information please contact:
Laurie Hickman
434-985-2675 or 434-882-1988
morninglaurie929@aol.com
You can also check out the ABRO website at www.abro.org.
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