Community news
Church aims to help Russian orphans through mission trip
Fundraisers aim to build funds for orphan transition program.
Monday, April 28, 2008
West Chester Twp. resident Pate Cagle said he got the idea for the New Life 4 Kids Mission trip to Ivanovo, Russia, from a personal source: Cagle has adopted two children from orphanages in that region, and he said his experiences there motivated him to spearhead the mission trip, scheduled for June 6-14 and organized by Faith Community United Methodist Church in West Chester Twp.
"One of the tragedies in the Russian system," he said, "is that at age 15 or 16, the money starts to run out. They're basically kicked to the curb."
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Without life skills training, Cagle said many orphans end up poor, turning to crime or committing suicide.
The seven members of the New Life 4 Kids mission plan to work with Russian orphans in a number of ways. One of those is spending time with the children and working with them to rehabilitate a farm in Ivanovo for use by aid organization Russia for Christ as a "bridge" facility — where older orphans can learn basic life skills before setting out on their own.
Amy Tincher of Liberty Twp. said the June trip will be the first of its type she and her husband, Adam, have taken together.
"I was teaching Sunday school at the time and he was at the worship service," she said. "He heard about the trip and I think he just felt called."
The couple, who are both professional photographers, are donating their services for fundraisers on May 4 at Faith Community united Methodist Church and May 18 at Keehner Park, when they will be shooting family portraits. All the proceeds will support the trip.
"We've done a fairly good job raising money," said Amy Tincher, who noted that each trip member is paying the $3,000 for his or her travel expenses. "Now we're focused on extras, because any (money raised) that can go to the orphanage and bridge facility can help a lot."
Cagle said Tri-County Spine and Rehab at 4904 Wunnenberg Way is holding a silent auction during its Family Fun Fest on May 16 to raise additional funds, and Amy Tincher added that the church is accepting donations of socks and underwear as well.
"It's a goal of ours to give back because we have felt so very blessed," she said.
For more information on the New Life 4 Kids mission trip or the May 16 auction, go to newlife4kids.com.
For information on the May 4 and 18 photo sessions, call (513) 255-1430.
