Chernobyl children arrive for summer break

The first of the annual airlift of children for the  Chernobyl Children International (CCI) touched down in Shannon Airport  on Sunday evening.

The children, who come from impoverished backgrounds, institutions and foster homes in the heart of the contaminated Chernl zone will be hosted by Irish families throughout 17 counties in Ireland as part of CCI’s Summer Rest & Recuperation Programme. Despite these challenging times, Irish volunteer host families continue to raise funds locally throughout Ireland to support the children and ensure they benefit from a cleaner environment.

Adi Roche, Voluntary CEO, CCI, said, “Despite the difficult economic circumstances many families find themselves in Ireland, our volunteers have opened their hearts and their homes this summer to children who so desperately need our help.

“While the Chernobyl accident happened almost 30 years ago the consequences last forever. My heartfelt gratitude to the volunteers who offer hope to live to the children who the world has largely forgotten.”

During their stay in Ireland, the children will gain respite from the high levels of radiation to which they continue to be exposed as a result  of the Chernobyl explosion. The summer is a particularly dangerous time in the Chernobyl regions as the intense heat contributes to the redistribution of radioactive materials.  A month in Ireland with clean air and food can add up to two years to the life of a child.