Empowering Communities: ADRA Romania’s Impact from 2019 to 2023

April 23, 2024, Bucharest.

Much has happened over the last five years – if we look at our personal lives, but also in our organization. A moment of looking back took place in Romania this week. On Sunday and Monday, April 21 and 22, 2024, at the Adventist Mission and Education Center in Stupini, Brașov County, the 20th session of the General Elective Assembly of the Seventh-day Adventist Church – Conference Union took place with 222 delegates from all over the country. During the meeting, the ADRA Romania report for the years 2019-2023 was validated. During these 5 years, ADRA Romania implemented 391 projects.

In the heart of Eastern Europe, ADRA Romania has been diligently working to bring about positive change in the lives of those in need. Over the span of five years, from 2019 to 2023, ADRA Romania has implemented a wide array of projects aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals and communities across the country.

Education has been a cornerstone of ADRA Romania’s efforts. Through programs like “I Want to Go to School!” and various other initiatives, ADRA has worked tirelessly to prevent and combat school dropout rates among children from vulnerable backgrounds. Over 2,000 children with promising academic potential have been supported with essential materials and educational guidance, setting them on a path towards a brighter future.

Over the last five years, we all have gone through the COVID pandemic. Beyond that, countless disasters have affected individuals, families and communities around the world. ADRA Romania has been very actively engaged in providing humanitarian assistance to families affected by domestic violence, natural disasters, war and economic hardships. Over 574 victims of family violence have received crucial support and shelter, while initiatives like the “COVID19 Humanitarian Support” project have provided aid to vulnerable individuals during times of crisis.

Moreover, ADRA Romania has extended its reach beyond national borders, offering assistance to refugees and communities in conflict zones. From providing food and hygiene kits to refugees from Ukraine, organizing humanitarian transports into Ukraine, to supporting children in Malawi with essential resources, ADRA Romania has demonstrated a commitment to serving humanity wherever the need arises. Also after the earthquakes that struck Türkiye and Syria in 2023, ADRA Romania delivered important aid to affected communities.

One of the inspiring aspects of ADRA Romania’s work is its emphasis on community engagement and empowerment. Through projects like “Children Help Children” and various volunteering initiatives, ADRA has encouraged active participation from young people, fostering a spirit of compassion and solidarity within communities. A creative contest involved children of all ages. Students participated in the solidarity runs.

You can read and watch the entire report here Raport ADRA România 2019-2023 / ADRA România

We thank the team and all supporters for their dedication and passion. Please pray with us for all involved, because our work does not stop and we continue to serve according to our Motto: Justice. Compassion and Love.

Pictures: ADRA Romania