A special group of women in the Russian capital are doing all they can to improve the lives of children in care. They are known as the ‘Moscow’s grandmother’s club’, and each school holiday they bring orphaned children into their own homes. They try to g

There are more than a million children in Russia’s care system, and many face a bleak future.

Orphaned or removed from their parents, most live in facilities that are shabby and underfunded.

Statistics show that only one in 10 will go on to lead normal lives as adults. Figures indicate that as many as 40 per cent turn to drugs, while an equal number become homeless. 

Ten per cent commit suicide.

The Government is attempting to improve the system but it is a slow process – which is why groups like Moscow’s grandmother’s club are so welcome.

Every school holiday Olga and her friends bring a group of orphaned children from the northern city of Severodvinsk to Moscow. These women give the children a chance to see what life is like in a real home.

They try to give the children as many different experiences as possible, including trips to the circus, the theatre. They also provide some religious education.

But most of all they provide the warmth and affection that many of the children have missed out on for years.

Olga says she's almost lost count of the number of girls she's fostered.

“We know how important it is for them when people take them by the hand or hug them. They really need it. The children normally come to stay two or three times a year and then we stay in touch via mail. My daughter has kept in touch with thirteen children, and through letters we got to know each other better and established relationships,” Olga said.

But there was one girl who Olga just could not bear to be without.

Kristina was taken away from her mother when she was seven years old. Last year she spent the summer with Olga and her daughter before returning to the orphanage. But then she got a letter that changed her life.

“They wanted me to become their daughter and sister of Lida. They said they had grown so accustomed to me. Now words fail me when I try to describe my life here. It’s understanding, it’s appreciation. You can tell them anything that's on your mind. You could depend on these people, they would help you and advise you in any situation. It’s so good!” Kristina said.

Not all the children in Russia’s care homes will have such a happy ending. But Olga is hoping that she and her friends will be able to make a difference to the lives of just a few.