The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Charity appeal for support of children from Chernobl
ANAPPEAL has gone out for Fife families to open their doors to Chernobyl children.
As a group of children from the radiation strewn area enjoys a visit to West Fife, the charity, which gives them a much-needed break in Scotland, urged more people to come forward and help.
The Chernobyl disaster happened in April 1986, when a reactor at a nuclear power station exploded and contaminated the surrounding areas of land, where two million people lived.
Over the last 12 years, the charity Chernobyl Children’s Life Line has been bringing youngsters to the country to enjoy some fresh air on activity-packed trips.
Now, Chernobyl Children’s Life Line is appealing for host families and back-up families who might be interested in working with the charity in the future, as well as sponsorship to help fund the vital work it does.
The cost of bringing a child to Fife is more than £500 and the charity would welcome any funding from residents or organisations to help in the years ahead.
The local Link has already helped more than a hundred children in this way since it was set up in 2001 and hopes to help many more.
Several youngsters from Brest in Belarus, a city which was badly affected by radiation from the explosion, despite being more than 500km away, are currently on a holiday.
They have been guests of honour at a Dunfermline opticians.
The four youngsters, aged between 10 and 12, recently arrived in the town for a month-long, activity-packed trip with the charity.
And top of the to-do list was a visit to Specsavers Dunfermline for a full eye examination.
The charity has been visiting the store on the high street for a number of years and the staff always look forward to seeing the children.
Store director Andy Hepburn said: “It is always a pleasure to welcome the children into the store.
“They have such poor access to eyecare at home and it is vitally important that they get tested while they are here.”
The examinations revealed that one of the children and trip leader Alena Sych needed glasses, which were provided free of charge.
The youngsters were also given goody bags filled with stationery and sweets.
Andy added: “I am sure they will enjoy the rest of their time in Scotland and I hope we have helped make a small difference to their quality of life.”
The children have a busy schedule ahead with visits arranged to Stirling Castle and Deep Sea World, a fruit farm, a scouts outdoor centre, as well as a trip on a canal boat and other outings.
Carol Dean, member of the Chernobyl Children’s Life Line, Dunfermline, and West Fife Link, said: “We are very fortunate to have a partner like Specsavers.
“Year after year they have supported our charity, taking time out to give the children eye tests completely free of charge and fitted them with new glasses if required.
“The levels of radiation to which they’re subjected may increase the chance of damage to their eyes and raise risks of conditions such as cataracts.
“By having their eyes tested while they are over here, any weaknesses can be spotted and dealt with.”
Carol added: “We are a small charity and we couldn’t do what we do without the support of the community and businesses such as Specsavers.
“We are very grateful for this and would like to say a huge thank you on behalf of Dunfermline and West Fife Link for the support we receive.”
For more information on becoming a host family or about the organisation, contact Carol Reddington on 01592 642374.