War, drug addiction and disease have exposed the children of Ukraine to trauma that will last them a lifetime. Eastern Ukraine is still involved in a conflict that has left much of the country devastated. Since it began, thousands of civilians have been killed, and 1.7 million have been displaced. As with most systemic problems, they are interwoven, with one prompting another, creating a whole host of problems for its citizens. Substance abuse is one of the most prominent issues in Ukraine, with heroin being the primary substance of abuse because of easy access and high availability. According to the International Narcotics Control Strategy Report (INCSR), released by the US Department of State, 68,220 drug addicts were registered in Ukraine as of May 2015. However, the report also estimated that the actual number of people with substance abuse disorders in Ukraine could be as high as half a million. With drugs flooding the nation, the country has been ranked as having one of the highest rates of HIV infection in all of Europe. The Ukraine has struggled with the issue of street children for years, many abandoned due to their parents’ addiction. Children who are alone face extreme vulnerabilities. The freezing cold temperatures are almost impossible to bear for those living on the streets. They are also at risk of substance abuse, sexual assault and engaging in a life of crime. They depend on the immediate shelter, food and care that homes like Pearl Orphanage can provide.
Pearl Orphanage sprang up in the mid-1990s as a local church began to care for homeless children. The Christian community of Alexandria began taking in street children abandoned by their families and realized an opportunity to minister, not only to these marginalized children, but also to their broken families. Pearl Orphanage became a haven of safety and a bright gospel light in its community. Although they have faced many struggles over the years, including an attempted shut-down by the government, Pearl has prevailed as a beacon of hope for Alexandria’s orphans. By God’s grace, they are now recognized by the Ukrainian government. This has given them the opportunity to minister to several children who have been given over to them by the state since then. They consider it a privilege and a blessing to minister to little ones who have often dealt with heart-wrenching tragedy and loss. Today, Pearl Orphanage proudly points out that there are no more street children wandering in their region. With your support, Pearl will continue to provide a place for the orphaned and vulnerable children of Alexandria to receive care, hope, love and gospel truth.
Serving Orphans Worldwide travels to every orphanage we partner with to ensure needs are legitimate and 100% of funds distributed goes to the livelihood of the children.
This year, we have a goal to help improve the quality of care for these amazing children, and we need your help. Your gift will help provide education, a safe home, health, and adult mentors who can share the Love of Christ. Our promise to you is that 100% will go directly to the home.