Country of Georgia Missions

Chiatura Institution for Mentally and Physically Challenged Children and Youth

Chiatura is located in the mountainous region north of Kutaisi – the second largest city in Georgia.  Chiatura used to be a thriving manganese mining town before the collapse of the Soviet Union. Since that time it has fallen into disrepair, the mines were closed and poverty reflects the very hard times. In 2002, PRUMC first visited the Institution which we call “Chiatura,” and our support has been ongoing!

Its wonderful, dedicated Director, Murman, and his staff are devoted to these special needs children ~ who range in age from 6-18 and in severity of mental and physical disabilities. The families of these children do not have the financial or educational resources to take care of these marginalized children ~ they cannot afford caregivers.  Most children’s parents are unemployed and thus, nutrition and medical care is totally lacking at home.

Thanks to Sponsor a Child, the 46 children of Chiatura receive life-essential nutrition, balanced meals, medical care and medical and dental check-ups.  The structures were abandoned by the Soviets and were all but destroyed. The current government has neglected them. PRUMC, partnering with the Peace Corps, was able to renovate the classroom building, build a well, and provide heaters.

Click here for more photos at Chiatura!