“Choose happiness.”
*names have been changed to protect the identities of families
October 1, 2025
“Choose happiness.”
For many children, happiness isn’t a choice. It’s a thin piece of fabric against cold rooms, empty fridges, and long walks to schools that don’t always welcome them. When joy is scarce, children don’t need slogans—they need change.
In Romania today, 1 in 3 children (33.8%) live at risk of poverty or social exclusion, one of the highest rates in the European Union. Romania also has the highest share of early school dropouts in the EU—16.8% of youth aged 18–24, with rural areas reaching 27.5%. Behind these numbers are children who hide, who wait, who dream of happiness.
And now, even as the new school year begins, the road ahead is even harder. According to Reuters, “Thousands of Romanian teachers marched in the capital Bucharest and classes were suspended across the country at the start of the school year on Monday in protest against the restructuring of schools and an increase in weekly teaching hours.” This disruption makes education even more uncertain for the children we serve. Please join us in praying for a swift and peaceful resolution, so classrooms can reopen and teachers can return to their vital work.
Choosing happiness is beautiful. But choosing justice—choosing to give every child the chance for a warm classroom, a full meal, and the tools to learn—that is life-changing.
Right now, more than 200 children in our care are waiting for the simplest supplies to step into that future: notebooks, pencils, backpacks—essentials that turn hope into possibility. With your help, they won’t have to hide. They will be able to learn, grow, and dream out loud.
Your gift today can provide exactly what they need:
• $35 provides a box of school supplies for one child (textbooks, notebooks, pens, art supplies, and a new backpack)
• $85 provides school clothes and shoes for one child (pants, shirts, shoes, sweaters, and a winter jacket)
• $120 covers both clothing and supplies for one child — a full start to the school year
Thank you for standing with us. Because of your faithfulness, we can continue to go where others will not go, and bring rescue, care, and hope to Romania’s most vulnerable children.
With gratitude and hope,
Debby Gass
CEO
Laura
– Director
– Donor Relations
– Program Development
P.S. If you’ve already given this month, thank you! Your gift ensures that children once abandoned are now embraced in loving families.