Medical needs & Dental projects
When we visit in orphanages and talk with the directors we find that one of the greatest needs is for medicines. At the beginning of each year when their new budget is not confirmed yet and old funds are used, it is also the worst time for sicknesses. The government gives about 200-300 grn or $40-60 a month for the medical needs of 100 children.
CFK would like to suggest a project of setting up a medical fund for the orphanages, especially through the wintertime when there are a lot of sick children. Through this fund we could help meet the basic medical needs for such things that help with fever, earache, bellyache, runny nose, and some eye drops. Also, through out the year these facilities battle skin funguses and scabies; so different antibacterial ointments are in great need. In talking with one orphanage nurse she wanted some hot water bottles; saying that sometimes those who are sick need to be warm. If you have ever been at these orphanages in the winter, you know the wood stoves cannot always keep the buildings warm enough, especially through the night. It seems to be a simple thing, but so greatly needed.
One director also brought this situation to our attention. When children need to be operated on for hernias, the operation is for free but medicines have to be bought from the orphanage budget. When they can't afford to purchase what is needed, the opportunity is lost and the child goes untreated.
When we purchase medicines we do so with the advice and assistance of "Mercy." Their doctors often travel with us to the orphanages to read medical charts and discuss health needs and prevention practices with the resident nurse. Our team in Ukraine already passes by many of the orphanages every month, so it would be easy to have medicines purchased and keep medicine cabinets stocked. If there are people who have an open heart for kids and if God makes it possible, we are ready to help.
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Dental project
In Pliskave orphanage the children have never had a dentist, but that is changing. With a dental chair from a Project Cure container and the willingness of a local dentist, a new program will start soon! CFK's project manager has supervised the electrical adaptations needed for the dental chair as well as getting a water supply plumbed into the medical room.
Nina, a resident at this orphanage said, "I use the toothbrush you brought me but it doesn't help. I see the dental chair is here, but what I need is a doctor. I don't want to lose my teeth!"
The start up costs for supplies are estimated at $400 and the wage for the dentist to visit every Saturday is arranged at $35 a month. CFK has begun this project on faith that there will be a sponsor to keep it going.
To get connected with others who have a desire to meet this need contact Lynnise Stoltzfus.