The 10th-anniversary "A WINK TO THE SUN" fund-raising campaign comes to its close

“With its humanitarian campaign, called “A WINK TO THE SUN – free holidays for every child”, the Association has been, for as long as ten years, encouraging the people of good will to make contributions for holidays of the children who, due to social deprivation, face the risk of staying at home and being uncared for. To date, free holidays have been provided for more than 6000 children from all over the country. On behalf of the children and their parents, we wish to express our sincere thanks to all the donors, while our thanks also go to the media which have enabled cost-free advertising,” said Franc Hočevar, chairman of the ZPMS.

At its very beginning, the “A WINK TO THE SUN” initiative was supported by Lek Pharmaceuticals d.d., a Sandoz company, the general sponsor and partner. Lek thus joined the effort of contributing to a healthy, joyful and pleasant childhood of every child. Over the past five years, it has organized the “SUNSHINE GAMES”, a special day for the children participating in the campaign, where they can show their skills and talents, and have enormous fun. On this occasion, Lek always presents them with special gifts.

“Lek has cooperated with the ZPMS for several years now, and has participated in the campaign since its very start. Being able to see the 10th anniversary of the campaign is therefore an additional reason for our joy. The major source of joy, however, are the results of the campaign: the raised funds will provide free summer holidays for many children, who, if not given this opportunity, would have to stay at home.,” said Marjan Novak, a member of the Lek Management Board, further adding:” The company’s mission is to provide health and a better quality of people’s lives. We firmly believe that, jointly with the ZMPS, we are fulfilling our mission by helping those in greatest need. The happy faces of the children we visit during their holidays keep proving that our efforts are aimed in the right direction. “

According to the Convention on Children’s Rights, every child has the right to spend quality leisure time intended for rest and relaxation, and for improving their health. Holiday arrangements give them the opportunity to further their personal growth, develop their numerous interests and abilities, gain fresh knowledge, develop social skills, make contacts with their peers and improve their health. In the 55 years of its existence, the Friends of Youth Association of Slovenia has organized pleasant holidays for children, offering them diverse leisure-time programs, with friendly teachers and healthcare workers making sure that the children feel well during their holidays. The children’s health and well-being improve in an atmosphere of friendship. Every year, approximately 30 thousand children spend holidays with the Friends of Youth Association of Slovenia. Holidays take place in the 14 modern holiday homes owned by the Association in various locations at the seaside and in the mountains.