Cotiujenii Mari

Counterpart International asked Elder Hinson and me if we would like to do an inspection of a Container donation. We were excited to see how the goods were blessing the lives of individuals. We went to a daycare for children whose parents are working out of Moldova (in other parts of Europe). These children are left with grandparents, older siblings, aunts, uncles, neighbors, or anybody they can find to take them. This facility gives these children a stable environment where they feel safe and secure. When the children are finished with school they can come to this daycare and learn computer skills, exercise, play games, and have a good meal. Some of the children are handicapped and stay at the facility all day. The children receive clothing donated by LDS Charities. The quilts also donated by LDS Charities provide warmth and comfort to these children. We are always amazed at the Directors and teachers at these facilities. They are angels sent from heaven because they love and care for these little children without much compensation. They are doing a wonderful job!

Ivancha Cardio School Renovation Ceremony

We just had the Grand Opening Ceremony for Ivancha Cardio School, and were pleased with the results. LDS Charities and Counterpart International partnered to complete this project. LDS Charities renovated 2 bathrooms and Counterpart International replaced doors, windows, and also brought in new dental equipment. The U.S. Ambassador to Moldova had taken a special interest in this school, and wanted to see that the children who attend this school were helped.

The U.S. Ambassador attended the ceremony. He was greeted by children wearing traditional Moldovan clothing. One young lady also greeted the Ambassador and his wife with bread and salt which means peace and prosperity. They were presented with flowers and escorted to the ribbon cutting ceremony. We then toured the school and were able to see all the renovations that had been made. The school director then made presentations to the Ambassador, LDS Charities, and Counterpart International. The Ambassador spoke followed by Elder Hinson representing LDS Charities. The children from the school then sang and danced many tradition Moldovan songs. This was followed by a beautiful reception. We were grateful for the privilege of being part of this project, and seeing the lives of many children improved and made easier. (These children love to have their picture taken. Many have never had their picture taken, and so when we come with a camera I always try to taken their pictures and show them what they look like on camera.)

Balabanesti Kindergarten School

Most every village we visit has a kindergarten school (daycare), and they are in need of the most basic classroom materials. This kindergarten is in the village of Balabanesti, Criuleni County. The school is about 40 years old. It was closed for 10 years before reopening again in 2003. There are a total of three buildings (not including a separate kitchen), in which two are in fair condition to be utilized. The school currently has 80 children between the ages of two and seven that attend. This kindergarten can not meet the needs of the village as many children are being turned away due to a lack of accommodations. The Mayor has replaced a few windows and doors, and a current project is underway to provide the school with running water. You will see in the pictures a silver container above the sinks. That is where they bring the water from the wells and put in these containers to wash their hands with. Used tables have been donated from the community, but many are broken and not able to be repaired. Each child is also required to bring a chair from home, many of which are big, old, or not suitable for school work. LDS Charities has been asked to help with table and chairs for this school. We were able to make a visit, and took Elder Cantlon and Elder Vandermark with us soon they could see village life. It was very touching for them to see the circumstances these children live in every day. Elder Cantlon was able to place a Book of Mormon with the librarian Lidia Zatic who will partner with us on this project. We are always amazed at the dedication of these special women in these schools. The Lord will bless them for watching over his children

Centru Maternal Ariadua-Drochia

Elder Hinson and I are always getting requests for help here in Moldova. We try to filter out projects that are suitable for LDS Charities to pursue. There are many Peace Corp volunteers here in Moldova, and they are one way we find projects. We had a volunteer contact us about a shelter for mothers who were either involved in human trafficking, or abuse situations. Moldova has a big problem with both. It is very easy for young girls to be picked up in villages thinking they are going to work in the states, when in reality they are put into a human trafficking situation. This shelter helps to rehabilitate mothers and children, and incorporate them back into society. We were asked to help with their beds that are broken, mattresses that are moldy and broken cupboards in the kitchen. When we visited this center we were impressed by the staff and their dedication to see that mothers and children receive the help they need.

Container Ceremony in Balti

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints sends containers of goods to all parts of the world. The containers usually have bundles of used clothing, quilts, school kits, hygiene kits, newborn kits, medical supplies, bedding, and shoes. Moldova does not allow some of these items to be brought in. We just had 2 containers arrive in Moldova the 1st of April. One container went to NGO’s in Balti to distribute, and the other went to NGO’s in Chisinau. Last week we were able to go to a distribution ceremony for the city of Balti and see how many people’s lives are blessed by this contribution. The NGO (Valentina) helps those who suffer from cancer or who have had cancer. These people were so grateful for the donated items. Many lack basic items such as hygiene supplies. These items are quite expensive here in Moldova so this was a real blessing! There are never enough handmade quilts to go around (donate by the Relief Society). Sisters your efforts really do bless many lives around the world. We are always touched by our experiences here.