February 1, 2026

Some stories are difficult to tell—not because they are rare, but because they happen far too often.

Maria is in sixth grade, and her brother Alex is in eighth grade at their local school in western Romania. Several years ago, their parents divorced. Their father struggled with alcoholism and abandoned the family. Their mother moved abroad for work and has since started another family—without Maria and Alex. Although she sends small amounts of money occasionally, her absence has left a deep emotional void.

But the deepest struggles are the ones no one sees.

Maria is bullied daily—at school and sometimes even at home. She is mocked for her appearance, told hurtful things, and dismissed when she tries to express her pain. Over time, she has withdrawn, becoming isolated and silent. Last year, overwhelmed by bullying and despair, Maria injured herself. The scar is still visible.

There is one bright place in her story.

Maria attended The Village of Hope Romania Summer Camp, where she experienced something new—acceptance. It was there that she met her only true friend, another girl who listened to her, played with her, and treated her with kindness. For the first time, Maria felt seen and safe. That friendship remains her greatest source of comfort.

Her brother Alex is her other lifeline—protective, caring, and deeply bonded to his sister. Together, they endure loneliness, stigma, and the quiet pain of being overlooked.

At The Village of Hope Romania,
we listen when children feel unheard.

Because of supporters like you, children like Maria and Alex receive counseling, food support, school assistance, medical care, and—most importantly—consistent presence. Healing from trauma takes time. It requires patience, stability, and love that does not disappear.

Right now we urgently need your support to help us meet the needs of the 270 children and 75 families to whom we provide life-saving support during the bitter winter months.

• $55.00 provides 1 month of food, medicine, and essential items for a child. Every month we provide essential items for 270 children and 75 families.

• $550.00 provides 10 children with essential items for one month . . . $275.00 provides 5 children with essential items for one month and $110.00 provides 2 children with essential items.

• Perhaps you would prayerfully consider sponsoring one child each month throughout 2026 $55.00 per month?

Your love and support send a powerful message to a hurting child:

“You are seen. You matter. You are not alone.”

Thank you for standing with us, for choosing compassion, and for helping us bring light into places where hope feels distant.

Debby Gass
CEO

Laura
– Director
– Donor Relations
– Program Development