Just one pair of socks could dramatically change a Bulgarian orphan's life for the better - and you can help make this happen.
The Chronicle is urging readers to donate new pairs of socks to send to the 120 children in a Bulgarian orphanage.
Children at the orphanage in Berkovitsa, who are aged between five and 16, still wear the top part of their socks, despite the material on the sole having worn away.
They would desperately love to own proper pairs of socks, especially when the cold weather arrives in the autumn.
But it's not just socks they are after - underwear, clothing, blankets and toys and any other similar goods are desperately needed for the 120 children, who hardly ever leave the orphanage.
Chronicle editor Stuart Rawlins said: "This is an opportunity for Chronicle readers and companies to show how much they care. These children desperately need these items."
Reporter Clare Berrett and picture editor Mike Rose are visiting the orphanage at the end of May with Malcolm Tilsed, manager of The Meadows shopping centre, and are hoping to take dozens of new socks and other gifts for the children.
They will be visiting the children and seeing the area where the orphanage is to report on the work that has been done, and what is still needed.
Malcolm and the Harvest for the Hungry team, including Rev Roger Stark, have already decorated the orphanage and helped make life more comfortable for the children.
Rev Stark said: "The last time we were there, we bought each of the children a new pair of shoes. When we took their socks off, the socks virtually disintegrated. Some of the children hadn't had their feet washed for a while either. Anything like socks and clothing is always needed for the children, just to make their lives a little bit better.
"Money is also being raised towards building new toilets at the orphanage, and although £13,000 has already been raised, another £7,000 is still needed to complete the project though, so cheques are also welcome from readers.
Anyone wishing to donate socks, or any other items, should bring them to the Essex Chronicle offices in Westway or Duke Street or a collection point in The Meadows shopping centre.
Published Friday, May 16, 2003
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