July 2008
If you're a regular reader of 'Poetic Hours' you might know that we have supported the work of the Star of Hope charity in Bulgaria in the past. For the last few years, international volunteers have gone there to help in the orphanages and this year is no exception. We have previously given money to Brian Sumpton who has regularly made the trip and reported back with great pictures of his time there. This year, Hazel and Carolanne Clark joined him and took a camera.We sent them with £200 and this is their report...
Wow! What a fantastic week. For the first time we had the privilege of travelling to Bulgaria to be involved in their annual summer camp. Thanks to you at 'Poetic Hours' all the children were able to experience the sorts of activities and love that children over here get every week. One of the children's favourite activities every year is swimming yet most of the children arrive with no swimming costumes or flip flops to wear. This often means, and it was no different this year, that one of the first tasks is to liaise with the leaders to find the size of costumes required. Swimming took place three times whilst we were there and the children loved every minute, taking inflatable toys with them and splashing each other! One of the most memorable moments was the joy of a little girl when we came down the stairs only a day into the camp. Her face showed utter delight as she pointed at her new flip flops. Money was also spent on funding the annual trip to the fair. The children became very excited and rushed around to have a go on all the rides offered. There was also the opportunity for the children to play hook a duck. Every child received a prize for this, something they don't often get.  

Further time was spent at the park, walking in the town, creative periods and ball games. One of the most important things for the children was the amount of adults there who were just readily available to listen to them and share moments with them. The children became very attached and seemed to enjoy every minute with us. On the final night we had a massive party with plenty of games and cake! Every child received a goody bag and it felt like Christmas. Departure day saw many tears from the children (and the adults). No doubt we will be returning next year. Thank you on behalf of all the children for your donations. We know first hand how much they appreciated it.  
Hazel Clark


Donations
2008
Family Care Christmas Appeal
Our other annual donation has gone ahead as usual. We have delivered a record number of selection boxes, toys and some England shirts to 'Family Care', an organisation that looks after disadvantaged children in the inner city area.
Other toys at the collection point
Footballs, toiletries and selection boxes ready to go !
Toiletries at the collection point with 'Poetic Hours' contributions at the front.
Ready to go
Picking up the selection boxes