Rathmore Branch

In 1997, Rathmore, Co. Kerry became part of The Friends of the Children of Chernobyl. To date we have brought an average of 24 children and 2 interpreters from the district of Luninets each year.

In 1998 and 1999, six members of our group visited Belarus and witnessed first hand the deprivation and poverty of these people.

In 2000 we gave money to the Grammar School in Mikashevichy to purchase a new computer.

In October 2004 and April 2005 we bought toilets, wash hand basins and a drinking water fountain for schools in Rakitno and Lakhva, and repaired old toilet facilities. We also bought them a photocopier, computer and school supplies.

We have brought three children to Ireland on different occasions for medical treatment.

Each year the Chairperson travels to Belarus to meet the parents of the children who will be coming to Ireland during the summer. We feel this is a great source of reassurance to the parents of the children.

We hope to be able to continue this worthwhile work in the future.