Kids helping kids
Beslan Friendship Park (Russia)
The horrendous siege at a school in Beslan in early September 2004, left 326 people dead, half of whom were children, and a community destroyed by the loss of so many young lives.
SchoolAid with the help of 1158 Australian schools opened their hearts in a national effort to bring hope to the survivors. An all-schools appeal for donations of funds and messages resulted in $463,400 being raised, along with 6,000 Messages of Hope and condolences to the community in Beslan.
In a partnership with World Vision, SchoolAid was able to pass on all the Messages of Hope from Australian students to kids of Beslan, and also to reconstruct and revitalise the town's central park.
The area is now a vibrant place for community and local kids to exercise, play, meet others and just hang out. Following a competition for local children to name the park, "Friendship Park" was chosen to symbolise the support Beslan received from Australian students.
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Some of the Messages of Hope sent to the kids of Beslan
"Hello, I have watched on the news what is happening in Russia to the children, parents, families, friends and teachers. It is all a real shock and I send my condolences, love and hope. In Australia we have been lucky enough to have never experienced something so tragic and sadly so real for the people in Russia. I am only 15 years old, and I know I could not imagine the pain that everyone involved in the massacre must be feeling right now, but do not feel alone and helpless, because there will always be people out there wanting to help. I will inform my school and friends about this website and send messages of hope and money to help restore the school and the victims' lives. With love, Courtney." 15yrs, QLD
"Sending my best wishes to the Beslan community. I find it difficult to comprehend the magnitude of the situation you, as a community, find yourself in. I felt the greatest sorrow upon hearing of this tragedy. Please know that my thoughts are with you. I may be just one person, but I can guarantee you that there are so many people who feel for you and pray for you every day. Your loved ones have not left you forever; they will be in your hearts for as long as you love them. I wish you all the happiness this world can give in the future." Jennifer, 12yrs, ACT
"My family and I were so upset to hear of the tragedy that has happened to your friends and their families. We do not believe in any particular religion, but believe in the good faith of human kind and are dismayed that people can be so heartless towards others, especially children. We feel helpless that we cannot embrace your sadness personally, but as a family we feel sympathy for your plight. Please accept these heartfelt messages from afar, and rest assured that there are still people in the world who value human life and who would happily open their home, and their hearts, to people in need." James , 13yrs, Victoria
"I feel very sad for everyone in Russia. I'm sending my love to you. You are all very brave and strong for getting through all of those terrible bombings and more. God is always with you and so is everyone else in the world. Don't give up hope, keep trying. Thinking of you always." Amelia, 9yrs, NSW
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