A future full of hope!

There is much curiosity about Katya's past and the circumstances that lead her to Podolsk Orphanage.

Katya was born in Podolsk, Russia in 1995 to an unmarried 21-year-old woman. Katya’s mother died when she was 13 months old, leaving her in the care of her grandmother in Belarus. In 1999, Katya’s grandmother died, leaving her an orphan because there were no other relatives. Because Katya was born in Podolsk, she became a ward of the city, so she was sent to live at the orphanage in 2000.

The courts know the identity of Katya’s biological father, but there are three contributing factors that determine why he cannot claim guardianship. First, he was never married to Katya’s mother. Second, he is a convicted felon and third, the potential for guardianship is legally impossible because the authorities classified her as a true orphan to ensure he will never attempt to claim custody. Once Katya leaves Russia, the records are sealed and he will not be able to locate her nor will he be given any information pertaining to her whereabouts.

As far as Fred and I are concerned, we would prefer not to dwell on her past, but on her bright and happy future with us! Some say life begins at 40, but for Katya we think life begins at 12!