ART EXHIBITION «DRINKA PAVLOVIC» ORPHANAGE

Belgrade, 15 December 2004 – H.R.H. Crown Princess Katherine visited today the traditional festive Bazaar, the exhibition of the children’s art at the «Drinka Pavlovic» Orphanage, which is traditionally held in this institution.

During the year the children from this orphanage made the art: woven items and pottery. They have also been painting and sewing. By exhibiting their handworks the children are giving their contribution and assistance, considering the condition of this orphanage. All proceeds from the sale are meant to improve the standard of the Orphanage and help the orphans.

H.R.H. Crown Princess Katherine, delighted with the exhibition, addressed the children, teachers and the guests.

«I am very happy for the opportunity to visit your home again and to attend the opening of your traditional handcrafts and art works bazaar. I congratulate you for this wonderful bazaar and exhibition. You take care of your home in a unique way. You are brave. My husband, our sons and I, will always be here for you. We are here for you to give you support and to overcome the difficulties with you, but also to celebrate your successes. Being together with you during the past years has been a real treasure and I hope that it will continue», said the Crown Princess.

The orphanage has 68 children and most of the children are of Primary school age. The main problem is the lack of funds to obtain medicines: analgesics, antidepressant medicines, antipsychotic, and many others; there is also a lack of funds for medical equipment: stethoscope, measurer of blood sugar level, thermometer, as well as fresh food: fruit, vegetables and fresh meat. The kitchen equipment is in a very poor state. Also clothing and shoes for children of all ages are needed. The renovation of the Orphanage is necessary due to its old age and the furniture is in a very bad shape and has to be replaced.

The Foundation of H.R.H. Crown Princess Katherine has been working for three years with the orphanage «Drinka Pavlovic» and it is trying to help as well as with all other orphanages and children as much as it can. The children from «Drinka Pavlovic» orphanage, as well as the children from all other orphanages, will come on the 4 and 5 January to The White Palace, where traditionally Their Royal Highnesses will give them Christmas gifts.