The couple Kees and Johanna Baars from Bedum, the Netherlands, are since 1991 active with humanitarian donations in the Prespa region in Macedonia. They have been visiting Macedonia since 1967 and fell in love with the beautiful country and the region of Prespa. After the collapse of former Yugoslavia in 1991 they asked the director (and long term friend) of the “Clinic for Prevention and Rehabilitation treatment of Chronic Respiratory Non-specific Allergic Illnesses Oteševo” Dr. Arse Gošarevski if he needed help. It became clear that in this clinic all help was welcome in order to function adequately and facilitate their patients. Kees and Johanna Baars put their forces together and in 1991 they established “Lucht voor Prespa” (Air for Prespa) foundation. A symbolic name because through the medicines they provide they actually provide air to the patients. 

“Lucht voor Prespa” initiates fundraisers in the Netherlands in order to purchase the necessary medicines requested by the clinic. The foundation receives contributions of steady donators and gifts from churches. At the same time they import Macedonian jewelry and wine and sell it in the Netherlands and they use the money to purchase relevant medicines/materials for the clinic. Every year Mrs. and Mr. Baars visit the clinic and succeed in sending the necessary medicines to the clinic. Apart from the medicines, the clinic has also received various medical equipment, such as a device for biochemical analysis, ergonomic bicycles for exercise for the physical therapy department and a brand new ambulance. 

The intensive donations and dedication of Kees and Johanna Baars are reflected in the high appreciation of the clinic as well as the gratitude expressed by the former President of the Republic of Macedonia, Kiro Gligorov in 1994. The Municipality of Resen pronounced the Baars couple honorary citizens of Resen. 

Nowadays Kees and Johanna Baars remain active with collecting donations for the clinic. They promote Macedonia, Prespa and the foundation in the Netherlands on every possible occasion. The most spectacular promotion occurred in 2005 when the couple Baars organized a benefit music day. In the period from 10.00 to 22.00 hrs, more than 250 musicians freely joined in making music for the benefit of the patients of the clinic in Oteševo. The couple Baars also participate at the so-called “vrijmarkt” – annual traditional market held on Queensday (the day the Queen celebrates her birthday). Every year “Lucht voor Prespa” requests subsidies; upon approval they appear in the local newspapers, with which they receive a great amount of publicity. As a result the couple Baars is often invited for video-presentations, where they are requested to inform the local citizens closely on their activities. Interest for this foundation is very high and this positive initiative remains supported.