Youth from Belarus in Stein, enjoy a pizza-making session with the town's mayor
In the picturesque town of Stein, a group of 25 children and teenagers from Belarus are currently enjoying a four-week break, thanks to the "Help for Chernobyl Children" initiative. This humanitarian effort, which began in 1993, aims to provide recovery stays for children living in heavily contaminated areas due to the Chernobyl nuclear disaster.
Mayor Kurt Krömer recently hosted a pizza evening at Steiner Gaerdla for these special guests, where they were surprised with small gifts from the city of Stein, Sparkasse Fürth, and the Forum Stein. The event was a delightful occasion, allowing the children to engage in artistic activities and enjoy a taste of German culture.
The stay in Stein is made possible by local host families and generous donations. The children are experiencing the benefits of clean air, a healthy diet, and medical care, all of which contribute to the strengthening of their immune systems. The psychological support provided during the stay is equally important, offering these children a respite from the harsh realities of their contaminated home environment.
Karin Schäpe coordinates the initiative for the current stay in Stein. The programme promotes international understanding while aiding in the recovery of children from the Chernobyl region. The children's artistic abilities are also nurtured during the stay, providing them with a creative outlet and a sense of normalcy.
The "Help for Chernobyl Children" initiative has a long history of facilitating summer visits, including those in Ireland, where around 120 Chernobyl children are welcomed annually for a restorative break from their contaminated area. This practice has been maintained for over 30 years, demonstrating the sustained commitment of the programme to improving the lives of affected children.
The initiative is sustained by voluntary support, and the current stay in Stein is no exception. The town of Stein, along with its generous donors, is proud to contribute to this noble cause, providing a safe and nurturing environment for these children to recuperate and thrive.
- In addition to enjoying their four-week stay in Stein, these children are also benefiting from the focus on health-and-wellness, including fitness-and-exercise, mental-health support, and a balanced lifestyle.
- The "Help for Chernobyl Children" initiative also promotes travel, as the children are given the opportunity to experience diverse cultures beyond their contaminated homes, such as immerging themselves in German culture during their stay in Stein.
- As part of the "Help for Chernobyl Children" program, these children not only experience a recovery and respite but also have the chance to develop their artistic talents, contributing to their holistic health and fostering a sense of normality.
