Belarus celebrates Mother's Day: multi-child mothers honored with state awards

Today, October 14, Belarus traditionally celebrates Mother's Day on the Orthodox holiday of the Protection of the Most Holy Mother of God. Across the country, heartfelt concerts, family events, and solemn award ceremonies are taking place. The main event of the day was the honoring of mothers from the Minsk region who gave birth to and raised five or more children. They were awarded the high state honor — the Order of Mother. Over the 30 years of this tradition, 2,843 women in the Minsk region have received this prestigious award.

🥇 Irina Malyarenko, a mother from Nesvizh, shared her emotions: "It's very exciting and touching, but we are proud. This award belongs not only to me, but to all of us — we share it among seven. I send greetings to my husband, who is the pillar and founder of our large family."

❤️ Another recipient, Marina Sharapa from the Nesvizh district, raises six children of her own and also works as a foster mother in a family-type children's home, where 60 children have already undergone rehabilitation: "Professionally, I am a foster mother in a family children's home, and by vocation, I am a mother too. Love is the most important thing. I receive so much love from my children — both biological and foster — and I give this love back to them."

🗣Supporting motherhood and childhood remains a key priority of the country's social policy. Chairman of the Minsk Regional Executive Committee Alexei Kushnarenko emphasized the scale of state support: "There are 21,000 large families in the central region. The state provides them with comprehensive support. In our region alone, we have allocated over 88 million rubles this year. Recognizing our potential, I believe the circle of awardees will continue to expand. This undoubtedly pleases us, because this is the future of our country."

Today's celebration marks the beginning of Parental Love Week, which will last until October 21 and conclude with another important holiday — Father's Day.