... benefitting
orphans in the Orel Oblast of Russia
Benefits from this year's tournament
650 miles from Moscow, in a tiny, impoverished village in the Orel Oblast, seventy five children residing in two orphanages
are desperate for help. The majority of these residents - newborns to teenagers – take refuge from miserable family circumstances
at these state-run facilities. Yet, giving these vulnerable kids proper care let alone additional hope is a daily challenge for
the caretakers who face deteriorating living conditions, dwindling resources, and overall despair. Five remaining nuns from a
nearby, equally as poor, Maria Magdalena convent, have embraced the orphanages as part of their mission. Struggling to give the
children the love and care they deserve, they reached out to Frank Foundation in desperation.
"No one seems to know we are here. It is easier to think that than to say we have been forgotten. The buildings the children
live in are falling down. The children lack proper clothing and we cannot give them adequate nutrition with the meager funds we
are given. We tried to reach out to the community, but people here are facing such tremendous poverty and hardship. That’s why
many of the children are here in the first place. We pray for our future; we pray for a miracle." – Mother Josephina, June 7, 2009.
We can be this miracle. Immediately, Friends of Frank has mobilized its network and has sent three large parcels filled with brand
new shoes and clothing for the children. Funds to purchase fruits and vegetables for the summer have also been provided. Yet, this
is simply scratching the surface of all that needs to be done. Please join us as we bring light back to these special children.
Frank Foundation Child Assistance International is pleased to match tournament proceeds to benefit the children of Orel. As we all make
sacrifices in light of these difficult times, we ask that you consider the plight of orphans who are profoundly impacted by the global economic
crisis. Your support is truly appreciated always.
100% of the proceeds of this year's tournament will be directed towards these efforts.
