In May 2002 CODP began to work at Dyatlovo Orphanage in Western Belarus. In two trips, in May and December of that year, using E150,000 raised from mostly corporate donations, we completed over 20 projects, including replacing all 200 beds; installing three industrial freezers into a kitchen which until now had none; establishing a 60-acre farm with a new tractor and suite of farm machinery, and putting in a new playground where the old playground had fallen into disuse due to lack of maintenance. We also built a new roof on one wing of the orphanage, and new shower facilities where before there were no working showers. Other projects included the commissioning of a new library and gym and the restocking of the medical centre and dentistry.

All projects were identified after extensive discussion with the director of Dyatlovo orphanage. Almost all materials and equipment were sourced locally.

We are delighted to be able to say that the Dyatlovo farm project was a terrific success. We had a bumper harvest of grains, potatoes and vegetables. So impressed were the regional authorities with the harvest that they have designated Dyatlovo as an agricultural institute, which means that they have pledged to provide facilities to ensure the orphans get formal agricultural training. In a country where a large majority of people, including professionals, rely on their plots of land for much of their food, the importance of this training cannot be overstated.

Dyatlovo was a model for the standard we wish to attain at all our orphanages. Our belief is that all orphans in Belarus should have access to at least basic facilities. Where possible we improve on the basic. That said our targets are dictated by need and once we feel that an orphanage is amongst the best in the country we are happy to move on.

Since our flurry of initial projects at Dyatlovo we have returned to renovate their dorms and hallways. This was absolutely necessary as the previous walls had wooden cladding and posed a serious fire risk. We have also help fund a new fire detection system and new fire extinguishers and hoses. Since December 2002 we have also returned to Dyatlovo to do Santa Claus with the children there.