The moment we've all been waiting for....

I am always very happy to make a donation for the children of Bengbu SWI.  We have built a long history of trust with the orphanage staff, and our donation money is very effectively in stretching our donation dollars to their maximum.  Steven will often accompany Ms. Wan to the distribution shops, where they make an exception to sell directly to her.  This is only done for the case of the children, and we get a really good deal.


I was happy to have Emma along with us, so that she could see our donations as well, and be there to witness our presentation of our Packages of Hope poster to Director Song.




You can see that video here.

 Director Song, and the orphanage staff recognize many of the children adopted over the years. A special family in Norway, and a longtime donor and supporter of Packages of Hope, will appreciate the above photo.

Thank you Director Song for your openness and your heart for the children.  Without his help, none of our efforts would be possible.






Several families had sent messages to me, which I hand delivered to the orphanage director.  Unfortunately, Ms. Wan could not join us this time, as her mother unexpectedly fell and broke her hip.  She was in the hospital caring for her.

In addition to the gray hairs, another difference to the presentation of letters from the families... reading glasses!



The director took us to see the donations we provided to the orphanage, which was a real treat.  A lot of clothing for the children against the cold winter weather.

 Steven Tao carefully reviewing the receipt for all our donations.(above)

Here is a video of the donations


After having a look at the donations, we were shown some of the special programs that are being provided at the SWI, including programs for the hearing impaired.  There are assessment equipment and doctors dedicated to the care of the children. 

As a very special gift, Emma was invited to play music for the children of her former orphanage.  I know I had to fight back a tear or two.

Emma was also able to meet a few of the nannies that were there at the time she was a baby (below).  I don't know what they put in the water in Bengbu, but I don't understand how these people can look so young!!!

Do you like this girl?  Would you like to call her your own?  TOO LATE!  Her forever family has finally found her, and she will be home in just a few months!


We were able to have a bit of fun with the children, with my daughter, and then finally me, was able to join in with some dancing.


I was then presented with an ambassador award, one of only two given in the history of the orphanage.  Steven Tao had accepted it for me at the Spring Festival last year, but they were able to give it to me now (below):

In all, I was humbled and honored to help our donors provide for the children of the orphanage.  THANK YOU ALL for donating to Packages of Hope to help all these beautiful children at the Bengbu SWI.