Torez Special Needs Orphanage - Ukraine

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This state orphanage in Ukraine is taking care of 250 Ukrainian Orphans ages 4 to 18, all with physical or mental deficiencies. The orphanage was established in 1966 for the specific purpose of caring for special needs children. Local governmental support has been poor due to the limited funding available and their lack of interest in the kids due to their inability to become normal citizens. The last repairs were done in 1991 and only focused on some faulty heating equipment. There have been no major renovations to the facilities since it was built.

The severity of the childrens conditions ranges, but many suffer from Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, cleft lip, limb deformities, and severe mental retardation. Many are malnourished due to the lack of food rations available and inadequate staffing. Most are very small for their age. There are no early intervention services for these children, and no educational programs are provided here, yet. There are 230 staff members that work in 2 shifts with the children, but even this large amount is not sufficient to adequately care for them due to the severity of their disabilities. 20 of the staff are tutors. They play with the children and teach those that are physically able to do hand crafts, such as knit and embroider. Approximately 45 children are in 2 seperate "lying down rooms" and require constant supervision and attention.