Two local groups combine efforts for world children (Facebook graphic)

By Brian Konrad

Two local charities working together to make life better for children

Oct 29, 2023 | 1:00 AM

MEDICINE HAT — Two charities in the city are joining in their efforts to reach out to the Medicine Hat and area community.

C.A.R.O. – Canadians Reaching Out for the World’s Children, and MHART, the Medicine Hat and Area Refugee Team are already planning an event for next month to mark World Children’s Day.

The Caring Hearts concert will feature local performers in an afternoon of music and dance.

Proceeds will benefit an orphanage in Burkina Faso, West Africa, a long-standing partner of CARO.

Bob Wanner, who is the founder of CARO and serves as it’s vice president, says the orphanage was started by a women’s organization in Burkina Faso to offer safe haven, food and education to children left on their own amidst turmoil in their country.

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“The orphanage employs local women as nannies for the youngest children and then supports foster families who care for them as they grow. The benefits multiply through the care, employment, education and resources which CARO funding supports, along with other international partners,” explains Wanner in a release.

The Caring Hearts Concert will take place on Saturday November 18 from 2 to 4 pm at Fifth Avenue Memorial Church.

Those who would like to make a donation to the Burkina Faso orphanage can find CARO on the Canada Helps website.

CARO is a registered charity and will issue charitable tax receipts for donations of $25 or more. CARO hopes to raise at least $20,000 by year end.

Rev. Nancy Cocks, is a co-founder of MHART, formed in 2015 in response to the Syrian refugee crisis.

She will serve as the new President of the CARO board.

In a release, Cocks says “we share a commitment to reach out on behalf of vulnerable families, providing avenues for compassionate Hatters to channel their generosity to others in extremely difficult circumstances. By this collaboration, our networks have new opportunities to make a difference in these challenging times.”

A new CARO website marking this charitable collaboration will be launched soon.