Golovchenko visits children's rehabilitation center in Volozhin District

MINSK, 22 December (BelTA) – The Our Children charity campaign is a good New Year tradition, Belarus' Prime Minister Roman Golovchenko said as he visited the Praleska children's rehabilitation center in Volozhin District, Minsk Oblast, BelTA has learned.

“There is a good tradition in our country – to travel to all corners of our country during the winter time to wish Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to children, especially those who have to spend winter holidays outside their homes. We take part in festive events, hand over gifts. Both me and all the adults here have been touched by your songs, poems, dances, we are happy to be here and celebrate the winter holidays with you,” said Roman Golovchenko.

He gave the rehabilitation center a Br20,000 certificate to purchase medical equipment, and presented New Year sweets to the children. “I wish you good health. You are the future of our country. Be patriots, love your Motherland,” the head of government said addressing the children.

The prime minister was given a tour of the rehabilitation center, he was shown medical equipment, recuperation and leisure facilities. He noted that the center has everything in place to help children restore their health.

The Praleska rehabilitation center was opened in 1987. It treats children with gastrointestinal and respiratory diseases, visual impairments, and orthopedic pathology. It is located in a forested area in the agricultural town of Rakov, Volozhin District, 30 km from Minsk.

Traditionally the New Year's charity event Our Children runs from 15 December to 15 January. At this time, New Year's performances are organized in all regions of the country. Heads of national bodies of state administration and representatives of local authorities visit orphanages and family-type houses, hospitals, foster families and adoptive families, congratulate the children on New Year and Christmas, give presents and help them solve their problems. Public associations and other organizations join the charity campaign.