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Transit Center Airmen lend a helping hand

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Nichelle Anderson
  • 376th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
Transit Center at Manas, Kyrgyzstan --  Airmen brought smiles to the faces of dozens of children during a visit to the Belovodsky Orphanage April 13, 2010, in Belovodsky Village, Kyrgyzstan.

The visit to the Manas Area Benefit Outreach Society-sponsored orphanage, organized by Lt. Col. Neal Linch, the Transit Center's humanitarian assistance director, was crucial. Airmen delivered much -needed food, clothing and toys for the children.

"We lend a helping hand simply because we are a good neighbor, our Airmen collected over 8,000 COM to buy food to help the orphanage that did not have any food left," explained Capt. Allen Yee, the executive officer for the director of the Transit Center at Manas. "The toys, clothing, and additional food were donated by families and support back at home."

Because of their donations this year, the orphanage was able to improve their facilities and provide a more comfortable environment for the children who live there.

"You are the first ones to come here and help us," said Svetlana Beyshenalieva, the Belovodsky Orphanage director...
Through MABOS, Transit Center Airmen volunteer regularly, assisting in the community where help is needed. Their efforts build a unique partnership between the community and the Transit Center, and Airmen are eager to continue expanding multiple humanitarian assistance projects in the future.

"The Transit Center's involvement demonstrates that we are more than just occupants, but integral members and partners of the community with the same goals and aspirations to make [the community] better for everyone to live in," explained Capt. Thomas Mulka, MABOS president.
The best unsolicited feedback we get is from the children and families, Captain Mulka said.

"The smiles they give through their tears of enjoyment can't be measured, and are enough to remind each Transit Center member that our efforts are appreciated," he said. "The directors ... always have open arms, welcoming us back to their organizations. It drives each of us to unselfishly continue with the assistance."

The visits never seem long enough, he said, and they are always anxious for the next visit.
"Rest assured that whatever you bring here is for the children, Ms. Beyshenalieva said. "We are waiting for your return."