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Hyde Park mothers helping Russian orphans By
Rachel Irvine
Heart-wrenching reports are often told about human suffering in countries far away, with little or no help available. Stephanie Allred and Bonnie Child of Hyde Park heard about children in need, and did something to help. They are part of an organization called Mothers of Utah for the Children of Russia. This group was started in 1999, and is the brainchild of Rebecca Rasmussen. Rasmussen heard stories from her uncle and aunt about a great need for supplies, money and care, which many orphanages and hospitals in Russia had. Because of lack of resources Russian orphans are not getting proper care. Rasmussen went to work. She recruited five of her friends to help her, including two Hyde Park natives, and Mothers of Utah for the Children of Russia was born. Many communities in Cache Valley pitched in to raise money to send to Russia. The students of North Park Elementary started bringing change to school to help in the cause. By February 2000 they had raised $50,000. In March 2000 the women went to Vladivostock, a city on the eastern tip of Russia. Their suitcases were full of toys, candy bars, a rocking chair and new $100 bills. The women were told to buy as many supplies in Russia so that they would not have to pay import taxes on the goods. It took them two days of shopping in the city to buy formula, paint, light fixtures and baby food. Rasmussen said that they were not able to buy everything they wanted too. They spent the whole trip looking for a crib, which they never were able to find. All the mothers agreed that the best part of the trip was being with the children, and watching their excitement as they received the food and toys. The Mothers of Utah for the Children of Russia are planning a return trip to help more children.
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