Section: PERSPECTIVE
Page: E4

Sunday, December 1, 1996

ALBANY-TULA PROGRAM OFFERS FAMILY-TO-FAMILY HELP

RAY JOYCE Albany-Tula Alliance

In the past five years, the Albany-Tula, Russia Alliance has developed a very beneficial relationship between the two cities. Exchanges of professionals in the education, health, business, cultural and entertainment fields and sponsorship of intern training programs have contributed very positively to the difficult philosophical and economic transition Tula is experiencing. Conversion of a government-dominated mindset developed over 70 years to a democratic system -- responsive to human rights and freedoms -- is a slow and challenging process.

One of the Alliance's most significant efforts is its Family-to-Family Program. Periodically, shipments of goodwill packages from volunteer families in the Capital Region are collected and shipped to selected, needy families in Tula. It is a direct, one-on-one, family-to-family humanitarian effort from people who care to people in need.

Despite international differences and created barriers, we are all one people and it may well be said that those who enjoy the Lord's munificence are obliged to share with those who struggle for life's necessities.

In addition to your charitable activities at home, you are invited to extend your compassion in a direct, personal way to a designated family in another land that is striving to be free and survive in an uncertain economy. Individuals and organizations wishing to participate are most welcome.

A shipment will be collected on Friday evening, Dec. 6, and Saturday morning, Dec. 7, Blessed Sacrament Church, 607 Central Ave., Albany. For information and assignment for your own Russian family, call 438-1253.

In thanksgiving for your own good fortune, this is a great opportunity to share a Merry Christmas package with a grateful family.

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