Ukraine Graduate Orphans

There is a long ignored group of orphans in Ukraine – those who have “graduated” from their orphanages at ages 16 – 18.

These young people generally have substandard education as compared to the normal public schools and are assigned to various trade schools, sometimes on merit and often on convenience to the system.

There are some special people trying to help a few of them – a drop in the bucket compared to the need. Here is what I have found.

Hopeful Hearts Foundation

“…..it finally hit home to me that what we were doing was worthless if we weren’t going to take it that next step further…..”

These people got it – they understand like few others and are willing to put themselves on the line. They got it.

Their video speaks volumes and is worth the time. Please open this page by clicking on the photo; click on 2007 Street Children and the Transition Home and click “Watch Video”

Last Bell Ministries

“The Last Bell Ceremony marks the end of the school year for thousands of orphans in Ukraine. For 15- and 16-year old graduates, this ceremony means the end of life in an institution.

“They face an unsympathetic outside world, unprepared for independence. Most attend trade school for two years and live in poorly-run government dormitories.

“From the day of their graduation, they are disadvantaged by limited education, inadequate life skills, and little to no family support. Because they feel rejected, lonely, and hopeless, they are vulnerable to peer pressure and destructive behavior.

“Many are lost to a world of drugs, alcoholism, prostitution, crime, and suicide.”

Please click on the photo to open Last Bell Ministries.

“One of our main goals has always been to provide tangible help to these children we love so much - schooling and jobs. This past week we had the amazing opportunity to help our Losha Yeremenko get into the Sumy trade school!

“He made the decision to transfer down to Sumy from the village where his mother lives; this is such a good move for him in countless ways. After two meetings with the director on his own things weren't looking good.

“So we decided to take matters into our own hands. After a 5 minute meeting with the director he stood up to say, "Well, you've convinced me!" AND LOSHA IS IN!!”

“ROVNO, UKRAINE”
“In Ukrainian orphanages, though the kids are said to graduate, they do not get the equivalent of a high school diploma and thus it is impossible to find a way to make a life for themselves.”

You just might be able to help them save one of these children. Otherwise they generally face a short and sad future.