Tbilisi, Georgia
In March 2009, CHCI traveled to Tbilisi, Georgia to form their first partnerships on the ground. After visiting seven orphanages in and around Tbilisi, we solidified partnerships with two, Sathnoeba and Lampioni.
With the gracious support of our first fiscal sponsors, we were able to address the most pressing need of each partner orphanage.
The most pressing need for the Sathnoeba orphanage (44 children) was for new mattresses and bedding. We were able to purchase mattresses, blankets, pillows and sheet sets for each child. When we delivered the new mattresses and bedding to the children, they were overjoyed, as were we. While this was a great improvement for Sathnoeba, much more is needed and much more is to come. See photos below.
In the Lampioni orphanage (50 children), the direst need was for a functioning hot water heater - we were able to supply them with such.
These first ameliorations were but the beginning of our newfound partnerships with the Sathnoeba and Lampioni orphanages. We assessed the highest level needs for these children and plan to match each one with the funds raised by children in selected US schools.
Additionally, while in Tbilisi, we had the opportunity to introduce our organization on both radio and television. We were broadcast on the Georgian chapter of "Voice of America" as well as on a local news television channel.
This trip was a great success for CHCI on many levels. Meeting the children of Sathnoeba and Lampioni, spending time with them, and hearing some of their stories, was certainly the most valuable.
A great deal lies ahead for CHCI and its partners. The first program with US schools will be launched this May.
