Humble beginnings for a worthy cause (12/14/97)

Humble beginnings for a worthy cause

DOUGLASTON, N.Y. - After Ukraine declared its independence in August 1991, one of the many problems that came to the forefront was children who were orphaned or had been abandoned by their parents.

A group of women at a Ukrainian Catholic church organized a fund-raising dinner in order to collect money for orphans in Ukraine. Over $41,500 was raised for the orphans and on May 4, 1992, the same group of women came together and formally organized the Orphans' Aid Society, electing the following officers: Maria Jowyk, chairperson; Ivanna Soltys, vice-chairperson; Marianca Zadojanna, secretary; and Nilla Soltys, treasurer. Their most important task was to find sponsors for Ukrainian orphans.

Today the Orphans' Aid Society has over 180 sponsors, numerous contributors and over 700 orphans who receive $15 a month, clothing and medication. In 1996, the organization had total revenue of $121,932.

For more information contact: Orphans' Aid Society, 129 Ridge Road, Douglaston, NY 11363; telephone, (718) 423-4966.

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