Trans-mission Partnerships

Ukraine

Conditions in Ukraine are poor. As you drive around, you find plenty of half-finsihed buildings. Quickly ou sense a 'big divide' between the "have's and have not's". A small percentage driving around in flash cars while a large percentage struggle to survive.

2005 was my last visit. My views may be out of date since the 'Orange Revolution'. Certainly before then, corruption was prevelant - especially through Traffic Police and Customs Officials.

As always the average man on the street struggled to survive. With high unemployment and little resources, the majority of Ukrainian people try to improve their personal situations.

Ukrainian hospitality in the homes of those we met are 'second to none', unlike in the UK when a friend is invited for a coffee and buscuit, in Ukraine, a full table is prepared of several courses.

Typical of countries under-resourced the marginalised suffer. Trans-mission Parftnerships have supported local work with street children and feeding the elderly. Our main work has been setting up Toy Libraries and working alongside Anhelina, a Paeditricianal Psychologist working with special needs children.

Generally, Ukraine is a tough country. Major alcohol problems; extreme poverty, high unemployment and lack of resources. Yet beneath all that, most people are extremely hospitable and eager to "Help themselves".

Find out more about Romania: Links:
www.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ukraine