On 2nd-4th of March traditional Casimir‘s fair took place in Vilnius attracting innumerable amount of residents and city guests. This fair was special, because according to organizers the number of participants willing to attend this event was higher than ever.  Also charity and support fund “Mothers‘ Union“ continued it‘s tradition and led by noblest aims gathered donations for children with oncological diseases. In addition, the students of Vilnius Gediminas Technical University ESN (Erasmus Student Network) were not indifferent and voluntarily contributed to this campaign by giving all their energy tried to quiver the hearts of passers-by to donate for the children.

The campaign began on Saturday morning, when, though a bit late, the tent of “Mothers‘ Union” was built and there you could buy cards made by children themselves. Guided by the motto “Support for a child – present for you” participants of the fair were able to buy a great gift for themselves and donate 3 Litas for those, who really need them. The charity was gathered in two ways – one stood by the tent and called people to stop by the tent and not just pass by, while others went through the crowd with special boxes, gave out “Mothers Union” calendars and encouraged to donate for children with cancer. Megaphone became an integral tool that helped everyone around to hear calls for help and support.

On Sunday the majority of our guests diceded to take a rest, so Lithuanian students took the lead. The day was really lovely as the sun was shining and setting a good mood. Passers-by were much more curious and interested in what we were doing. Also everybody had a chance to witness an incredible performance of two Erasmus students, who played guitars right here – in Vilnius city center!

Another thrilling thing about this campaign is that this year it became international – students from Latvia, Germany, Netherlands, Czech Republic, Spain, Poland, even from Uzbekistan and South Korea (they wrote names in Korean language) weren‘t afraid of cold weather and shared their companionship with others. Most people think that Erasmus students only party and have fun, but according to Julius Zaburas, who was the cordinator of this project and also curated the students during this campaign, students living in our country for 5 months (some even stay for 10 months or more) certainly want to assist the local community and give something back in return for the hospitality. „All of them are full of ideas, which we really want to make come true and in collaboration with other organizations (in this case „Mothers‘ Union) we can achieve so much“ – said Julius.

We hope that this is not the last project of ESN VGTU. Futher plans and ideas are being developed. We are very grateful for everyone, who organized and participated in „Casimir‘s Fair 2012“!!!  

Donations collected throughout this campaign: 3220 Lt.

More information about charity and support fund: www.mamuunija.lt