On September 19, the hospital personnel gave the children clothing, school supplies, books, comics, toys, snacks and other practical items. The children were delighted to receive the gifts and spent time talking and interacting with Viet Nam's peacekeepers.
    |
 |
|
Officers and personnel of Viet Nam’s L2FH Rotation 7 with children at St. Clare Home |
Established in December 2012, St. Clare Home provides care and shelter for orphaned children from various parts of South Sudan. It also supports their education and psychological well-being. The home currently cares for about 250 children of different ages, including children with disabilities, with 17 staff members and caregivers providing direct care.
|
|
 |
|
Small gifts with practical significance for the children |
With life in South Sudan continuing to be affected by conflict, instability and socio-economic difficulties, St. Clare Home provides essential support for children who have lost their families or become separated from relatives because of conflict. Its continued operation since 2012 has required significant efforts from local authorities and the community, and support from organizations. Against this backdrop, humanitarian activities by peacekeeping forces serving in South Sudan have practical significance.
|
|
 |
|
The children expressed curiosity and excitement as they received the toys. |
Betty, founder of St. Clare Home, said, “I am truly grateful and happy for the gifts that you Vietnamese have brought to us and the children. I do not know what else to say, but I just want to say: Please come back again! Thank you!”
According to Lieutenant Colonel Tran Duc Tai, Director of Viet Nam’s L2FH Rotation 7, throughout its mission, the hospital’s officers and personnel not only fulfilled their medical duties but also actively participated in charitable activities and supported local people. The gift-giving visit continued the unit’s humanitarian spirit and left a positive impression on the local community.
Non-Commissioned Major Truong Mai Hoa, a nurse at the hospital, said the visit gave her another beautiful memory of South Sudan before returning home. “We are saying farewell to this land and its people with the hope that they will have a better life,” she said.
Translated by Tran Hoai