CHRISTMAS PRESENTS FOR 1250 CHILDREN AT THE WHITE PALACE

Belgrade, 5 January 2006 – HRH Crown Prince Alexander II and Princess Katherine organized receptions for little refugee children, children without parents, Romany children, handicapped children from all around Serbia at The White Palace in Dedinje.

At the beginning of the reception Their Royal Highnesses warmly welcomed the children and expressed their joy to have them again in such a large number as their guests in The White Palace.

“Dear children, I am very happy to have you here today and to have Bishop Lavrentije with all of us. My wife, Princess Katherine provided the presents for with the aid of the Lifeline Hellas Humanitarian Organization and friends of good will from Greece”- emphasized the Crown Prince in his address to the little children and wished them happy holidays.

HRH Princess Katherine greeted the little children and wished them health and joy for the holidays and pointed out that children are always welcome to The Royal Palace and The White Palace and that in the hearts of Their Royal Highnesses children have a special place.

Beside Their Royal Highnesses, the children were welcomed by His Grace Bishop Lavrentije of Sabac and Valjevo, who pointed out that the Royal Palace is the home of all Serbs, and that children are always welcomed.

1250 children from homes in Serbia, aged from four up to 15 years will be the guests of Their Royal Highnesses, who will share the joy of the most joyful Christian holiday with children at the traditional Christmas receptions.

A large number of toys and gifts arrived at The White Palace thanks to Lifeline-Hellas Humanitarian Organization from Athens, whose patron is HRH Princess Katherine, and this year this deed was assisted by friends from Australia and donations of domestic donors: Swisslion, Paracinka Paracin, Ishrana Produkt, Aleksandria, Color Press Group, Fresh&Co., Rodic MB, Creative Center and School Books Publisher from Belgradeand Ministry of Interior of Republic of Serbia.

Just like the last year, The White Palace was full of cheerful children today. Together with Their Royal Highnesses, the children enjoyed a play and songs by the well-known children animator Pedjolino, clown Smiley and Santa Claus, who came to The White Palace especially for them.