A CHARITY is seeking help to secure a much-needed home for youngsters who have been plucked from the streets and found safety for the first time, reports Michaela Robinson-Tate.

Cumbria Woman of the Year Pat Wright is appealing for 1,000 supporters to each become "one in a thousand" and safeguard the future of the Genesis House in Ukraine.

If 1,000 people come forward and pledge £10 a year, that money will be enough to keep the house - which is already home to three previously destitute children - open for 12 months.

The Kendal grandmother, who was awarded an MBE for her charity work, said that within days of the appeal's launch, more than 100 people had already signed up to be a member of "one in a thousand".

All 1,000 members will receive a limited edition lapel badge and will be kept up-to-date about the work of the house by newsletter, becoming a "special friend".

Pat Wright said she hoped to be able to secure the funding in advance to keep open the house for a year at a time.

"We already have the first three children experiencing the joys of family life," she said. "For the first time, they know what it's like to have a loving mother and father our wonderful foster parents and a beautiful home.

"Each has an horrendous story to tell. They have seen and suffered things no young children should ever be exposed to. We have room for seven more, but now need even more help from the countless people who have got us this far.

"We've started something truly wonderful here and I appeal from the bottom of my heart to people to become "one in a thousand" to keep it going."

The fund-raiser spearheaded a £70,000 campaign to buy and equip Genesis House, in a village near Kiev, where up to ten children who have previously only known destitution and despair can find a home. Readers of The Westmorland Gazette were instrumental in raising the money.

The house is already home to brother and sister Anton, four, and Sophia, three, who have just been joined by seven-year-old Marina. Genesis House is run very frugally, Pat Wright said, although items such as medical care have to be paid for. The children have problems with their teeth and eyes, and Anton is being treated for rickets.

The garden is blooming and the nearby villagers have taken the home to their hearts, with milk from their cows and goats helping to counter Anton's illness.

Anyone is welcome to become "one in a thousand", and taxpayers will be able to gift aid their donations, bringing in even more funds.

Pat Wright said Genesis House was only one part of what could be achieved: "From there we can go out and feed the street children. It's just a catalyst for so many things. Who knows, the house Cumbria bought might nurture the next president of the Ukraine or a world leader."

l To become "one in a thousand" contact Pat Wright on email at pat.w@mail.ru or telephone 01539-727158. Cheques should be payable to New Beginnings.