Growth in Ukraine is not particularly positive. Population may increase. Yet a staggering 80 per cent of infants are estimated to be at risk from iodine deficiency problems due to poor nutrition.

Disadvantaged families suffer the most with widespread substance abuse and family breakdown.

Bible Camps provide hope to counter overwhelming social and physical problems among the poor. Sponsored by Siloam Christian Ministries, these camps are held in partnership with local churches. Children and families are ministered to throughout the year. When children come to Bible camps, it offers a breakthrough for them to see opportunities ahead.

Children participate in varied activities and learn social skills within a sound biblical context. Fun brings joy to children who normally do not experience a carefree childhood.

"Siloam sponsored Bible camps in Eastern Europe and Portugal have led to youngsters committing their lives to the Lord and later becoming pastors. We trust that God wants to use Bible camps to raise up Christian leaders for the next generation too," reports UK Director Richard Norton.

"This year funding was lacking to fully support the camps but we were grateful to be able to carry on."

In Ukraine, Claire Anderson sums up the 2010 Bible Camp experience: "We had 93 children from Chernigiv and surrounding villages. From their appearance and behaviour, you could observe a lot about their families. Many children live with one parent families and alcoholism is a common problem. Many come from desperately poor backgrounds.

"Each day included exercises, Bible classes, group activities, sports, games, crafts, songs and an evening message with a drama. Children enjoyed regular good food which is not what they would normally experience.

"Also, they were excited to receive illustrated New Testaments. It was encouraging as they kept telling me what they had been reading.

"The last night many children and teenagers responded to the meeting by coming to faith. We plan to do a monthly follow-up meeting in some of the villages where they do not have a church group. Those from Chernigiv were invited to a Sunday school and the youth group.

"We are thankful to supporters for helping us to have such a camp and for actually enabling it to take place as there are now many lives touched with the truth of the Gospel."