She Chose to Keep Going
*names have been changed to protect the identities of families
New school supplies prepares her for a birght future.
October 15, 2026
Earlier this month, we shared the story of a 7th-grade girl who told our team she was dropping out of school.
Rather than simply accepting her decision, Francisc and our team sat with her. They listened to what she was going through, encouraged her, and reminded her that her future was worth fighting for.
When our team returned with school supplies, they received wonderful news:
She had re-enrolled—and was excited to go back to school.
In the weeks since Mariana’s passing, moments like this have reminded us just how important it is that the work she devoted her life to continues. Mariana believed deeply in coming alongside children and families—not simply meeting an immediate need, but listening, encouraging, and helping them see that their circumstances do not have to determine their future.
Today, Francisc and his team are carrying that work forward.
This year, our Back-to-School program helped over 150 children begin the school year with the supplies, clothing, shoes, and encouragement they needed. While these items have already been placed into the hands of children, we still need your help covering the costs of our Back-to-School program.
New school supplies prepares her for a birght future.
Would you prayerfully consider helping us meet this remaining need?
Ready to Learn — $55: Helps cover the cost of a new backpack and necessary school supplies for one child.
Ready to Grow — $85: Helps cover the cost of new school clothing and sturdy shoes for one child.
Ready for Success — $140: Helps complete Back-to-School package—a backpack, school supplies, clothing, and shoes.
Ready for school!
Ready for school!
Would you prayerfully consider helping us meet this remaining need?
Ready to Learn
$55 ⊲ Helps cover the cost of a new backpack and necessary school supplies for one child.
Ready to Grow
$85 ⊲ Helps cover the cost of new school clothing and sturdy shoes for one child.
Ready for Success
$140 ⊲ Helps complete Back-to-School package—a backpack, school supplies, clothing, and shoes.
The backpacks may have been delivered, and the children are now sitting in their classrooms, but the need is not over. Your gift today will help us cover these expenses and allow Francisc and his team to continue focusing on the vulnerable children and families who depend on The Village of Hope Romania.
Sometimes changing a child’s future begins with a backpack. Sometimes it begins with a conversation. Most often, it takes both.
As we continue to grieve Mariana’s passing, there is perhaps no better way to honor her legacy than to keep doing what she did so faithfully showing up, caring deeply, and giving children hope for a different future.
Thank you for standing with us as we carry this work forward.
With gratitude,
Debby Gass
CEO
The Village of Hope Romania
Laura
Director – Donor Relations/Program Development
(678) 232-3600 | Laura@VillageOfHopeRomania.org