Children of Chernobyl

The Children of Chernobyl Program

The Children of Chernobyl is a non-profit, humanitarian organization providing respite to 8 to 12 year old children whose health and lives have been affected by the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear accident. The Annandale United Methodist Church began participating in this program in 1993. As a partner with the Belarusian non-profit, non-government organization, Hope for the Future, our church identifies host families, provides support services, and gladly receives donations to bring children to Annandale for a much-needed 6-week respite.

The children of Chernobyl need a healthy, loving home to live in for their stay in the Annandale area. Their immune systems are severely weakened due to the radiation contamination in their villages and/or their inadequate food supply. These children pose no health risk to others, but they need rest. The children benefit from our good water, healthy food, fresh air, sunshine, exercise, and love. With their host families they play, explore, and learn about America—and the world.

The children receive dental checkups and treatments, medical care, vision and orthopedic care, all donated by local doctors.	Some of the children come with the very basics, others with only the clothes on their backs. They speak no English and are completely unfamiliar with our way of life. Once here, they are nurtured and experience all the fun and love that we have to share.

As citizens of the world, we can make a difference in the lives of a few children. Their short visit here will boost their immune systems and spirits. In addition, the program develops a global consciousness within our community and helps our own children to be empathetic and compassionate.