After-school project for disadvantaged children in eastern Georgia

„tschweni eso“ (English: „Our yard“) is a project that provides after-school care for disadvantaged children and young people in a village in a rural region of eastern Georgia. 

 The project includes a home-cooked midday meal, help with homework as well as games and a protected space for the children to play. Additionally, learning activities are offered on various topics, such as protecting the environment and conflict avoidance. 

 

The children come directly to the day centre after school and spend about 4 hours there on week days. Each school year 10 to 16 children (6 to 14 years old) who are physically disabled or socially disadvantaged are invited to take part. The families aren’t able to provide suitable care and support after school for various reasons. Most of the children have an absent mother or father, either because one of the parents has died, a parent doesn’t live in the area anymore or is away for work. Or there is some other reason they aren’t able to take care of their children, e.g. alcoholism. Some of the kids have a physically disability or a learning difficulty. 

 

The project was started in 2013 by Marika Tshkadadze. She is the pastor of the local Baptist church.

You can find more information here: https://www.wirgestaltenev.en/angebote/tschweni-eso 
 
The building belongs to the local Baptist church and is provided free of charge.  

Donations are need for the following: 

- the midday meal for the children 

- wood for heating in winter 

- water, gas and electricity use in the building 

- materials for study and creative work (e.g. pencils, paper, colouring books) 

- a modest salary for the teachers

- occasional repairs to the building 

- necessary purchases, e.g. cooking pots, kettle 

- special activities such as a visit to the theatre or zoo (if there is money left over)