A GROUP of volunteers from Herefordshire and Gloucestershire will be setting out for Kenya in July to rebuild a reception centre for street children at the Pandipieri Catholic Centre, Kisumu.
They are being sent by Forest of Dean-based charity Hands Around the World, which responds to appeals for practical help from the developing world and promotes mutual understanding and friendships.
Leading the team will be Longhope couple Claire and David Viner. David, aged 49, has had experience with Hands Around the World (HATW) through a project in Zambia.
The Pandipieri Centre was founded by a Roman Catholic priest, Father Hans Burgman, in 1979. He recognised the need for such a refuge to help against the dangers that threaten the lives of those on the street - insecurity, crime, child neglect, alcoholism, poverty, ignorance and filth.
If the children's common bond is their fragile lifestyle, each has his or her very individual needs and problems. With loving care, the hope is that each will be integrated back into society.
The reception centre was badly damaged by severe storms and it must be restored as soon as possible. Without this space, many children are having to wait for help or are slipping through the net.
The charity's director, Dr David Steiner, said of the volunteer team: "They're a cross section of people - young and mature, men and women, skilled and keen amateurs. There's a mix of personalities too, but vital qualities include a willingness to try anything - well almost anything. They have enthusiasm, adaptability and most importantly, a sense of humour."
The group intends to spend time together, getting to know each other and preparing for the type of work ahead, and, of course, fund-raising.
David Steiner added: "The projects may be relatively small-scale but what is achieved is far from small. Apart from the very visible structural benefits, there are the lasting and worthwhile benefits of friendships forged, cultural divides bridged, a greater understanding of development issues and new perspectives on life."
Anyone wanting to know more about the charity or who would like to support the team financially, or help with fund-raising, can contact Hands Around the World on telephone 01594 560223 or e-mail handsaroundtheworld@compuserve.com.
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