Project Odessa

Like most eastern European countries, the Ukraine has a huge problem in the form of homeless children. It is estimated that there are around 4000 homeless children living in the city of Odessa alone. Many take shelter in underground sewers, which usually results in them turning to street crime, drugs, prostitution and other forms of abuse.

What can be done?
Homes can be provided for these children, as well as helping them get an eduction and gain employment so they can stay off the streets.

What is being done?
Grace Baptist Church in Odessa has an orphanage which currently houses around 30 children. These children are given shelter, food, clothing and, most importantly, love. Now, they are building a Transition House for the children to move into when they turn 18, thus allowing more children to be adopted into the orphanage. Once complete, this Transition House will house around 70 young people as they seek employment and their own accommodation.

How have we been involved?
In 2008, some men from Gwersyllt Congregational Church sought to put their faith into action and organised a practical work project to help with the construction of the transition house. Since then, 4 teams of men have gone out to help with the building work and have taken finances for the building materials.

What is needed?

• Prayer. Without God leading and guiding us, we will build this house in vain, so much prayer is needed. There has already been much prayer for this project and God has answered beyond expectation.
• Fund raising. Funds are needed for this project to continue. Every penny we raise is used to buy building materials.

Who goes?
A very diverse group of men have gone out to Odessa so far, including a plumber, two preachers, a software engineer, a 'civvy' from the police force, a retired police officer, mechanics, civil servants, a student and a BT engineer to name just a few. The age ranges from early 20's to (early?) 60's.

How can I get involved?
If you are interested (and are a man), you can either join a team going out or come along to a social event to learn more. No building experience or knowledge is required as everything is learned on site. Flights and insurance (approx. £350) are paid by individuals.

When are the next trips planned?
The next trip is planned for May 2012. You are more than welcome to come with us. Please contact us for more details.




This film was taken from one of our first trips...