There are many orphanages in Ukraine. Ukraine has so many kids it is almost impossible to imaging. Here are some FACTS I found. Notice I said facts. These are real facts. they are not made up.
-there are approximately 105 000 orphans in 473 orhpanages in Ukraine
-an estimated 100 000 more children live on the streets, with vacancies in the orphanage being few and far between
-the chance of being adopted after 5 years old drops to 20%
-orphan children "graduate" from the orphanage at 16 years old, and are often forced to leave earlier than this (around 14 years)
-Only 27% of orphans find work once graduated
-70% of boys enter a life of crime
-60% of girls enter prositution
-10% commit suicide before the age of 18, 16% commit suicide by their mid-twenties
These facts are amazing. I cannot believe that these kids have no where to go. They have no home to turn to and no family to love them. THey are absolutely alone. I think The last three facts suprised me the most. I cannot believe what these kids do! But, I guess they have no one to tell them right from wrong. They have no disipline. There are very few places that will take people in. These kids have no money, no home, and no family. At Saint Vladimir's on the page of the Ukrainaian Village, they have a place where you can donate clothes and toys. I use to donate there constantly. Now I live farther away and it is harder to get there. If you look up Ukrainian Orphanages on Google, MSN, Yahoo and so on, you will find millions of websites that list more information than I ever can! These orphans are really poor. These girls enter prostitution to make money to survive. that might be their worst nightmare but they may have no choice. The boys may rob and rob and rob until they get arrested. But they may not have a choice. They may think that is the only possible way to survive. But what would you do???? Are there really any more options? No. Not really. That is so sad though because they need some care. Did you know Elton John is currently trying to adopt a child from Ukraine? He is! It is true! For sure! Ukrainian speaking orphan and Elton John. I wonder how that will turn out but STILL! that is a big responsability! I am glad he is taking that upon himself and his wife and I am also greatful that he chose the Ukraine to adopt from. that is one less kind going into prostitution, robbing, or killing themself. That in my book is considered cool!!!!!!! (PS Elton John is having some trouble adopting a child for several reasons.)
The pictures are all of Ukrainian orphans. They are all needing of a home and they all need a family. The kids right above the text got things for Christmas. they look so happy! They are never getting new clothes, new toys, and new supplies. Most is all donated. The message here is to be thankful for what you have.:)
