Although Romania is in the EU there are still many challenging hang-overs from its communist days. The rural areas are very poor with high unemployment and a very low wage relative to the cost of living. Poverty is a major problem. We regularly find families where multiple generations are living in little more than sheds where in winter it can reach -18degrees centigrade or lower.
Lidia and Iakob Murza have been supporting children in and around Bistrita, Romania since 1991, and we have been delighted to partner with BENITA, the organisation they founded, in both the sponsorship of children and a linked project to build or repair homes for very poor families. Each two 2/3 room house costs about £15,000 for Grassroots to built. When we have less money available we concentrate on refurbishing or extending existing homes. Any gift towards this work will make a difference and we will let you know the house your money has been spent to build or repair. Give here: Give Now – Grassroots
Education has associated costs such as clothing and kit, but the sponsorship scheme covers this so families can concentrate their limited funds on food and fuel.
Sponsorship
Child sponsorship in Romania costs £8 per month. This sponsorship provides:
- School uniform and sports kit,
- School equipment,
- Dental and medical care,
- medical note to be able to attend camp,
- Birthday gift (many have never had a birthday gift).
Sponsorship Plus allows you to overpay an extra monthly amount and this money will be used for additional support, perhaps unusual medical needs or as a buffer when currency fluctuations go against us. It really helps!
Alternative Gifts
Fancy supporting a family with additional food parcels? Concerned about the night-time chill and want to give some firewood? Or want to contribute to the next home been built by buying some bricks or some nails? Our gift store provides numerous opportunities to buy small or large items for the projects that make a real difference. You can buy them in your own name or on behalf of someone else – alternative gifts.