MATCHING HAS BEGUN? AND UPDATE ON MELODY

Rumors are starting to float around that the CCAA has begun matching for this next batch of referrals. Let me just state for the record that my hopes are not up for a big batch.

Melody has been able to check in with CHI (our adoption agency) and has posted more on her blog. She and her team of volunteers are en route to the Wenchuan Orphanage to deliver much needed supplies. They've encountered some very dangerous conditions along the way, but they continue onward for the sake of the children. I want to share a few things she has posted on her blog. She is truly an amazing and caring woman!

"According to the Wenchuan Orphanage director we will be the first batch of people to help the orphanage specifically. We were eager to arrive."

"Near midnight, in a little county named Xiao Jin, a scene moved us. There were several Tibetans along the road, offering volunteers and victims donated food. They live in the mountains, and come down every morning to the roadside, making some simple meals for the people passing by, and do not return home until midnight. They gave us some food before we left, telling us to eat on the way and share with the victims if we see any.

Now we are expanding our rescue area with the help of many volunteers, in many different ways. As of May 21, we began sending volunteers and donations to Qingchuan, Guangyuan, and Shifang to reach the victims there.

A lot of charity organizations and NGOs are collecting donations, both cash and material. Children’s Hope has had an amazing response to material aid; many needed items reported from the front lines are met almost immediately from our different sources. The money we raise is used for the greatest need of children.

I have a proposal now: I want to build a foundation with the money we have, a Growing Fund. This fund will help the children effected by the earthquake, specifically, for psychoanalytic consultation, education assistance, necessary medical treatments, and skill training and career assistance for the older children.

As time goes by and people change their focus from the disaster, I wish this fund will bring professionals together to help and care for these children as they grow into adults. It is a big proposal, but together – we can do this for the children."