Ukraine - Organiizing a summer camp in Ukraine and Russia is no easy task. In the State run orphanage system, orphanage directors do not want to release orphans into the care of an outside organization or group for fear of their own liability in case a child is injured or escapes. They would rather release them to their prior home or an extended family member, for the summer, then to a camp ministry such as EEO.

What could be better for a child than to have a loving mother and father? Official research indicates there are 1.5 million children living on the streets, in shelters and orphanages, and other institutions in Russia and Ukraine. This does not include children living with grandparents or older siblings / relatives due to an abusive home life.

Governments in Russia and Ukraine have recognized the depth of the crisis and have taken steps to establish a legal method for families to take in "social orphans" in what they call a "family type orphanage". This is a good development, though extremely difficult.

Click to learn more how you can sponsor a caring Foster Family rescuing orphans.