One vital aspect of our work is the regular visits to the Orphanages in the area. Letting the children know that we care and that we put that care into action is a very powerful tool.

We learned very early on that this regular contact is much more valuable than sending money to buy shoes (for example).

The children and staff are deeply moved that we are prepared to travel the breadth of Europe to spend time playing with the children.

We generally focus on two orphanages (although we have links with more):
Provadia - a small home for girls aged 8 - 18. Generally there are about 18 girls in residence
Barzitsa - a large home for boys & girls aged 3 - 18. Generally there about 80 children in residence.

A typical trip would involve spending a week in one of the orphanages leading a diverse set of simple activities. Activities have included Art, Craft, Music, Sport, Cooking, English teaching (the kids also love to try to teach us Bulgarian) and much more.

It is impossible to put into words the value of the time we spend together and whilst it is intended as an act of giving, we gain so much more in return. However, it is the Children in the Orphanage who we are seeking to bless.

Here is one very simple story which sums up the value of our visits - Mary (name changed) suffered with a mild mental illness which expressed itself in varied behaviour levels. The visiting team showed love to Mary whatever behavior she was exhibiting and included her in all the activities. At the end of our visit she said that this week had been the happiest of her life. She is 15 and had been institutionalised for the majority of her life. There were many tears but they were intermingled with joy.

If we achieved nothing else in our years of work this single incident would make it all entirely worthwhile. Happily, there are many stories like this one. Naturally, there are sad stories too and it is our hope that we can make a difference in these lives as well.

Interested in joining one of our trips? Please get in touch.