There are more than 120,000 children in state-run orphanages in Ukraine, including more than 3,000 in the Zakarpattia oblast. 92% or more of them have a family; they are "social orphans," institutionalized because of poverty, neglect, health, or other reasons. Without proper advocacy, these children often end up in the institution until they age out. It's tragically a very broken system.

I partner with the local toddler institution, where I get to provide supplemental care to infants and young children with disabilities. I also get the opportunity to come alongside vulnerable families – where their children are at risk of entering the institutionalize system for a variety of reasons. My goal is to encourage and help equip families to keep their children at home.

Blossom Cottage, our small group home, will serve 8-10 children deprived of parental care. This small group home is a stepping stone for the Ukrainian orphan care system as it moves from large institutions to family-based care. Blossom Cottage will primarily serve children with special needs and large sibling sets, who often do not get placed in foster families. Our focus is on equipping the children to mentally, emotionally, and physically be prepared for permanent family placement, either through reunification or adoption. Blossom Cottage is in the build process with hopes of completion in 2025 or early 2026.

I give regular updates on this ministry on my personal Instagram account: @allinakay.

Thank you for your prayers and support!