Old Union Church of Christ in Castalian Springs is taking on a very big undertaking.
The congregation is coordinating a collection of items to help fill a 40-by-8.5 shipping container for Ukraine orphans. The Ukraine government is providing the container and paying for the shipping.
"We are asking the citizens for Sumner County to help in this very worthwhile effort," said Nadine Pryor, the drive's coordinator.
"After years of Communist rule, people have little money to buy things even though many items are available. Their country now is what ours was like in the 1940s."
She said doctors make only $135 a month and are government-forced to retire at age 50.
Pryor said what is really sad is that the children suffer the most - especially the orphans.
"Most of these children never knew their parents," she said. "The orphanages they are raised in are cold and drab. They need our help."
Pryor said the Ukraine climate is very cold except for two months out of the year.
"Only winter clothing is needed. All clothing must be clean and washable - no holes, stains, tears or missing buttons. Zippers must work. Clothing is needed for both boys and girls. The children like brightly-colored clothes."
Items will be collected Sept. 13-Nov. 8 on Wednesdays at the Old Union Church of Christ in Castalian Springs.
"Someone will be at the church building to receive your donations from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Wednesdays only," Pryor said. "If you cannot come on a Wednesday, please call the church at 451-3002 to arrange another time for drop-off. Items may not be left unless someone is there to receive them."
Another way citizens can help is to volunteer at the church on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. beginning Sept. 13. Anyone interested in volunteering can call the church office at 452-3386 or 230-6311.
"Since the Ukraine Government is paying the shipping, they will accept only the items listed," Pryor said.
Children's clothing from newborn to 17-years-old (they must leave the orphanage at 17) include sweaters, long-sleeved shirts, pants, jeans, fleece tops or wool, knee-high socks, leather and tennis shoes for teenagers, leather boots, gloves, caps and scarves, jackets and coats, flannel nightwear and new underwear.
Hospital items needed are walkers, wheelchairs, manual hospital beds, auto claves, operating tables and bassinettes.
Household items needed are chest of drawers, beds, springs and mattresses, eating tables, chairs, pots, pan, dishes and eating utensils.
Other items needed are soap, shampoo, deodorant, Neosporin, band aids, toothpaste (expiration date two years), toothbrushes, hand lotion, dental floss, powder for chapped lips, vitamins for children, lice treatment (especially needed), toilet paper, Kleenex, sanitary napkins, disposable razors, sheets, towels, washcloths, face powder, hair clips and hair ribbons, combs and hairbrushes, bobbie pins, shampoo, blankets, quilts, fleece throws and wash clothes.
Baby items needed are diapers, diaper rash cream, baby powder and lotion, baby shampoo, baby blankets, socks, caps, jackets, sweaters, one-piece outfits, strollers, high chairs and walkers.
Toys donated must be clean or new and not battery-operated such as stuffed animals, balloons, balls, jacks, puzzles, push and pull toys.
Items not accepted by the Ukrainian Government are electrical items, used underwear, bathing suits, evening dresses, medicines (except Neosporin), candy or food items, purses, panty hose, lipstick or make-up (except powder) and battery-operated items.
"We will be more than happy to accept financial donations," Pryor said. "That way we can purchase items that are allowed."
If you have any questions call the church at 451-3002 or e-mail nadeanpryor [at] comcast.net or gurchiek [at] aol.com.
