The children of Vung Tau orphanage.

By Nicky Losse

In January of 2000, we had the opening ceremonies for a new, furnished five-classroom building sponsored by CHI that would be used by the orphanage and the entire community of Bung Rien in the province of Vung Tau.

Our second major program for 2000 was the rehabilitation and construction of the Hope Center, which was a joint venture between CHI and the Department of Labor and Social Affairs in Vung Tau Province. At the Hope Center, training and education is available to the entire community as well as the children living in the orphanage in Vung Tau. What is most exciting for us is that this is a place where the birth mothers who have relinquished children will be able to come and learn a skill or trade that will enable them to be come more self-sufficient. Currently, there are sewing classes and many of the older orphanage children are able to participate. Future plans for the center will be a motorbike repair shop and restaurant for hands-on training and employment for the older children, and reading and writing classes.

We have been privileged to be a part of sponsoring the Loc Ninh orphanage in Binh Phuoc Province. It is located on the Cambodian border, a rough, 3-hour bus ride from Saigon. But the long trip is worth the smiles on the children’s faces when our van pulls up bringing clothes, sugar, noodles, rice, milk, and toys for the 50 orphaned children and elderly living there as well as presents for special celebrations.

In Binh Duong we also had the joy of working with the Red Cross to donate wheelchairs to handicapped adults and children. One man told us he had waited 10 years to get a wheelchair!

After the devastating flood in southern Vietnam, we were able to contribute 2 tons of rice and clean water filters to the victims—thanks to those of you who contributed.

Our exciting main project for 2001 is building an infant center at the Vung Tau orphanage. Previously, there was no place for abandoned / relinquished babies. We will provide building, equipment and staffing. If you are interested in contributing to this project, please contact Nicky@ChildrensHope.com.

Sewing classes at Vung Tau Hope Center.

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