“You are seen.
You matter.
You are not alone.”
*names have been changed to protect the identities of families
February 15, 2026
In our last letter, we shared the story of two siblings—Maria (12) and Alex (14)—children who have known far more pain than any child should. Their story is not unique in Romania, but it is deeply personal, and it is still unfolding.
Maria and Alex continue to live with the weight of abandonment and neglect. Their father’s alcoholism and absence, their mother’s decision to start a new life abroad without them, and the daily struggle of living with an overworked, ill grandmother have shaped their childhood in ways no child should endure.
But there is something new we want you to know.
Healing has begun—but it is fragile.
For Maria, one of the first places she felt safe was at The Village of Hope Romania Summer Camp. There, she experienced acceptance instead of ridicule, kindness instead of cruelty. It was at camp that she met the only true friend she has ever known—a friendship that became a lifeline during her darkest moments.
That single relationship reminds us of something important: when a child has even one safe place, one consistent presence, hope can begin to grow.
Alex remains fiercely protective of his younger sister. Though still a child himself, he carries the responsibility of being her shield in a world that has failed them both. Together, they navigate loneliness, stigma, and the quiet pain of being overlooked.
At The Village of Hope Romania, we don’t step away once a story is told. We stay.
Because of supporters like you, children like Maria and Alex receive:
• Counseling and emotional support
• Food and essential supplies
• School assistance and medical care
• And most importantly—consistent presence
Healing from trauma does not happen overnight. It takes time, patience, stability, and love that does not disappear when things get hard.
Right now, as winter continues to press hard across Romania, we urgently need your help to care for the 270 children and 75 families who depend on us each month for life-saving support.
Your gift can make a direct, tangible difference:
• $55 provides 1 child with a full month of food, medicine, and essential items
• $110 supports 2 children for one month
• $275 supports 5 children for one month
• $550 supports 10 children for one month
Perhaps you would prayerfully consider sponsoring 1 child each month throughout 2026 with a gift of $55 per month.
Thank you for standing with us.
Debby Gass
CEO
Laura
– Director
– Donor Relations
– Program Development