Friends of Russian Orphans - Supporting Yaroslavl's children

A nonprofit organization for the support of Russian orphans

Frunzensky Orphanage:
Yaroslavl's home to special-needs kids

Frunzensky artists at a recent orphan art show History

The Frunzensky Region Orphanage opened its doors in 1996. At that time, Frunzensky accepted both normal and "delayed" children, as the other orphanages in Yaroslavl do. In 1998, however, it was reclassified as a "special correctional institution" and began receiving mildly retarded children. In 2003, Frunzensky Orphanage sent off its first two 18-year-old graduates.

The children at Frunzensky

Frunzensky Orphanage serves 35 children, ages 7 to 17. Of these 35 children, 27 are "mildly retarded"; the remainder are suffering from either delayed psychological development or are classified as psychological "invalids."

FRO's work at Frunzensky

In 2003, FRO completed and equipped a special medical treatment room at Frunzensky to respond to the high concentration of upper respiratory infections characteristic of the children at the orphanage. In addition, FRO installed a system of air purifiers.

FRO is also helping extend the capabilities of the Frunzensky staff so they can better respond to the special needs of the children there. With FRO's support, the assistant director of this orphanage is pursuing a two-year advanced degree in the treatment of retarded children.

Frunzensky Orphanage maintains an active presence in the YARBOO Advisory Council, providing advice to Friends of Russian Orphans and giving a unique insight into Russia's correctional institution system. Through the Advisory Council, children at Frunzensky have received medications, art supplies, teaching materials and bicycles.