All,
I just wanted to let you know that Laura and I have been on the ground here in Karaganda, Kazakhstan for 2 days now. The city environment is very rough on our tender American eyes, but essentially no different from other areas we've visited previously in Eastern Europe, such as Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, or the former Yugoslavia.
We delivered the suitcase full of your donated medications to the orphanage staff yesterday, and they were geniunely touched by your heartfelt charity. Although the staff here is extremely dedicated and loving, there just aren't enough people and resources to go around for all of the kids in need.
So, every little bit helps in a big way. We haven't invested the cash donations yet, as we are coordinating a meeting between the chief orphanage doctor, a translator, and another staff member. However, we have determined that the orphanage still has critical shortages of children's foods such as formula and fine meal, so we hope to address these need first.
Again, thanks to all those within the Parish and the greater Stuttgart American military community for their tremendous outpouring of charity and heart. It is truly a wonderful reflection of your character and faith.