Masha has spent her whole life in an institution. Many teenagers and young people who are trapped in institutions due to their learning disabilities, lose their Rights once they turn 18 years of age.  This results in these young adults being moved on to adult mental asylums, where they will spend the remainder of their lives.

Through CCI’s pioneering Life Skills Programme, we have built and fully equipped a Life Skills Home within Vesnova and we sponsor a full-time teacher to work with the residents to develop their skills and abilities. This vital service, delivered in partnership with the Department of Social Protection in Mogilev, helps enable participants to live an independent life, free from institutions.

CCI is the only UN accredited NGO working in the Chernobyl region, and we work tirelessly to ensure that we comply with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

Thanks to our ground-breaking programme, Masha has been equipped with the essential skills that have allowed her to retain her Rights.

Having Rights is something that many of us take for granted, but this important milestone now allows Masha to live independently, to gain employment, and to be a part of the local community.

We are thrilled to tell you that Masha has moved out of Vesnova Children’s Institution and into CCI’s community home in the nearby town of Glusk.  Despite the challenges of Covid19, Masha is thriving and has even secured a fulltime job.

We are so proud of Masha and we are excited for the next chapter in her life.  This crucial milestone would not have been possible were it not your support.  Masha has been afforded the precious gift of living her life how she chooses, thanks to your generosity.

Thank you!