A Conversation That Changed Her Mind
*names have been omitted to protect the identities of families
Ready for school with a new backpack and a smile!
October 1, 2026
As we begin a new season at The Village of Hope Romania, we want you to know that the work Mariana loved so deeply continues. Francisc and his dedicated team are leading our work in Romania, caring for vulnerable children and families and carrying forward the mission that has been built over so many years.
Every fall, launching our back-to-school program brings a familiar sense of purpose. This year, we are helping over 150 children begin the school year with the tools they need to succeed.
But sometimes, what a child needs most can’t be placed inside a backpack.
We firmly believe that education is a doorway to a brighter future. It is a cause worth fighting for, especially when the harsh realities surrounding these children tempt them to give up on their dreams—and sometimes even on themselves.
Ready for school with a new backpack and a smile!
Recently, our team visited a family in our program to prepare for the new school year. During the visit, their oldest daughter, a 7th grader, quietly shared something that broke our hearts.
She was dropping out of school. She told our team not to bother bringing her any supplies because she wouldn’t be going back. But our team didn’t walk away. They sat down with her.
What followed was a deep and honest heart-to-heart about her life, her struggles, and the fears she was facing. They listened, encouraged her, and reminded her of her worth and potential.
When it came time to begin distributing school supplies, her home was the very first stop on our list. When our team arrived, they were greeted by the most rewarding sight imaginable—the wide, radiant smile of a 7th-grade girl who had changed her mind. She had re-enrolled in school and was genuinely excited to begin the new school year. What a powerful reminder of why we do what we do.
Yes, the backpacks and notebooks matter. The clothing and shoes matter. But sometimes the greatest impact happens in the moments between—a compassionate conversation, someone willing to listen, or simply having another person believe in you when you’ve stopped believing in yourself.
Sometimes, that’s all it takes to begin rewriting a child’s story. And you are part of that story.
Would you prayerfully consider helping another child begin this school year prepared, confident, and ready to succeed?
Ready to Learn
$55 ⊲ Provides one child with a new backpack filled with the necessary school supplies they need to begin the school year prepared and confident.
Ready to Grow
$85 ⊲ Helps provide a child with new school clothing and sturdy shoes, so they can walk into the classroom with confidence and dignity.
Ready for Success
$140 ⊲ Provides one child with a complete back-to-school package—a new backpack, necessary school supplies, clothing, and shoes.
For many of the families we serve, these basic school necessities are simply beyond what they can afford. Your gift provides much more than a backpack, clothing, or shoes. It tells a child:
You matter. Your education matters. Your future matters.
Because you give, pray, and stand alongside The Village of Hope Romania, Francisc and his team can continue showing up for children like this young girl—with practical help, encouragement, love, and hope for their future.
Thank you for helping us give these children the tools they need today and the courage to keep believing in tomorrow.
With gratitude,
Debby Gass
CEO
The Village of Hope Romania
Laura
Director – Donor Relations/Program Development
(678) 232-3600 | Laura@VillageOfHopeRomania.org
