Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ!

In 2004, TEAR participated in another fantastic ministry opportunity - the MINIVAN project for Shuia #5 orphanage in Shuia City. Through the incredible outpouring of God’s blessings, the children of Shuia #5 now have their FIRST EVER means of transportation. 

Shuia #5 is one of the orphanages that TEAR has partnered with through the Rock Partnership and Project My Child programs. Over a year ago, Leo discussed with Galina the orphanage director, what some of their needs were, and how TEAR could help. She mentioned that in her 25 years as director of the orphanage, they never had a way of transporting the children to academic events, field trips, or to the hospital in the case of a medical emergency. Needless to say, with over 175 children in the orphanage, this has been a daunting and burdensome limitation.

After much prayerful consideration, TEAR offered to pay for 1/3 of the cost of a NEW minivan. TEAR was also able to convince the local government (God really had his hand in this one!) to contribute 1/3 of the cost as well. Next TEAR approached the orphanage with the idea of the orphanage raising the remaining 1/3. TEAR felt this would give them a sense of ownership, pride, and self-sufficiency and the orphanage agreed. So, by May 2004, Shuia #5 had raised over $3,000 towards the minivan through the Sewing Program. In September of 2004, TEAR, the local government, and the orphanage, TOGETHER were able to purchase a BRAND NEW 15-PASSENGER MINIVAN for the Orphanage!

The purchase of the minivan was a longstanding dream of the Shuia #5 director, Galina. When Galina and Leo went to the dealership to take delivery of the minivan, she was visibly overcome with emotion. She stated to Leo, “It’s been a long 25 years coming”. It was a very powerful moment which God used to show American’s and TEAR’s compassion by support for the orphan children of Russia! As you can see, the children wasted no time in utilizing the minivan for a field trip. 

Isn’t it a blessing to see such solid results from your financial support of TEAR and the orphaned children of Russia? Your investments have already made a big difference in the lives of many children, and with your continued support, will reach countless more for the Kingdom of God in 2005.

Thank you for your continued commitment!