One third of children at the centre were under the age of three. They were totally neglected children who had narrowly escaped death and were in a life-threatening condition. The intensive care and dedication of the staff were essential for the little ones to recover physically, make up for developmental delays and develop age-appropriate emotions.
1. Greta Fischer washing the children, Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre
Finally, a hot bath! Greta Fischer helps with washing hair.
2. A group of young children, Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre
The dungarees with hearts worn by the younger children were sewn from linen and material originally intended for Nazi flags.
3. Greta Fischer on the steps, Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre
Greta Fischer with her younger children on their way to dinner. The regular daily schedule, nutritious food and in particular the dedicated attention of the caregivers were meant to provide emotional stability for the pupils.
4. George Nodvorskaya in October 1945, US Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington DC.
George Nodvorskaya, whose mother was a Polish forced labourer named Lidia, was placed in the children’s barracks in September 1944 at the age of 10 months.
When he arrived at the children’s home at the Indersdorf convent, “he appeared at first half-starved, too small for his age, and generally in a pitiable state.” *
Greta Fischer, UNRRA
After six months.
He appeared to be “a very happy child with a good constitution and good habits. He is able to eat independently and still wants a lot of food. He understands German and is beginning to speak. He needs a lot of love and seems to be developing well as a result.”
Greta Fischer, UNRRA
* Anna Andlauer The Rage to Live. The International D.P. Children’s Center Kloster Indersdorf 1945 – 1948, pg 49