Break Poverty Cycle of Roma Children in Romania

Greetings from the Care2Travel team!

Over the past months, our work with the disregarded children has continued with steady progress. Even though the challenges are still present, we are happy to share that we see real development in the children step by step.

One of the biggest positive changes came from the use of computers. The laptop and PC we provided earlier turned out to be very useful, so we decided to bring one more full computer set (PC, monitor, keyboard, mouse, speakers). Now both computers are connected to Wi-Fi internet and also to the printer, creating a small but fully working computer corner. The children really enjoy using it, and we can already see improvement in their basic digital skills, typing, and confidence.

Food support continues to be one of the most important parts of our work. We keep delivering weekly food supplies, sometimes even twice a week, so the children can receive health, nutritious meals every day after school. For many of them, this is still essential. In some cases, if there is enough, children also take food home, which shows how big the need is in their families.

Our volunteer team has also been very active. More than 10 volunteers have been involved during this period, and at least 4 of them have been coming every single week. They help with homework, organize games, and spend time with the children. These regular visits are very important, as they create stability and trust.

Beyond learning, we also had some very nice moments together. On one occasion, the children cooked together with two of our volunteers, making sweet cookies. It was a simple activity, but they really enjoyed it and it brought a lot of joy and teamwork into the group. With the kind contribution of the volunteers we also managed to provide them with football equipment (clothes, some shoes, and balls) which they were very excited about and started using immediately.

We also invited the children to our headquarters on three different occasions. These were special days for them where they could explore our office, meet our team, and enjoy a wide range of games and activities. Our second room is full of games and tools, and the children used everything with great excitement. These visits also help them see positive role models and imagine different future paths for themselves.

Looking ahead, we are preparing to improve the infrastructure of the after-school club as well. One of our next goals is to install an aluminium attic access ladder and fire-rate loft hatch, which is required for fire safety regulations. This is an important step to make sure the space can continue operating safely for the children.

Even if progress is not always fast, it is visible. The children are learning, growing, and slowly building new habits and skills.

Thank you for standing with us and supporting this important work. Your help makes these small but meaningful steps possible.

Warm regards,
The Care2Travel Team

Greetings from the Care2Travel team!

Over the past months, our after-school work has continued to be a vital support point for Roma children and their families, especially during an increasingly challenging period. With winter approaching and significant funding cuts affecting the daily operation of the club, our presence and support have become more important than ever.

To help families prepare for the colder season, we delivered large donations (multiple carloads) of winter clothing, shoes, bedding, and other essential items. These were not only distributed to the children attending the after-school program, but were also shared with their families, helping to ease some of the financial pressure many households are facing during winter.

One of the most pressing challenges this year has been the sudden reduction in external support for the club, which meant they were no longer able to provide daily food for the children. For many of them, the meal they receive after school is an essential part of their day. In response, Care2Travel made the decision to step in and ensure continuity. We now provide a large weekly food supplywhich includes bread, butter, ham, fruits, vegetables, and other important items allowing the children to receive food every day when they arrive from school. This support has brought not only nourishment, but also stability and reassurance to both the children and the carers. Failing to provide this, children would not be able to stay as long as before due to hunger.

Education remains at the heart of everything we do. Building on earlier donations of a laptop and printer, we have now brought additional computer equipment, including a PC and monitor. Together, these tools have significantly improved the children’s access to digital learning. With the help of volunteers, they are developing basic computer skills, practicing typing, and becoming more confident using technology. These abilities are increasingly essential for their future. Due to this success, we are already planning to source more computers and screens to further expand these opportunities.

Throughout this period, our team has maintained a strong, consistent presence. We visited the after-school club once a week, usually with a group of around four volunteers. During these visits, we ran English activities, supported homework and school preparation, and most importantly, built meaningful relationships with the children. These moments of bonding, encouragement, and individual attention play a crucial role in helping the children stay engaged in education and feel supported beyond the classroom.

Despite the challenges, the resilience of these children continues to inspire us. None of this work would be possible without the generosity of our donors and the dedication of our volunteers. Your support helps ensure that these children are fed, supported, and given real opportunities to learn and grow even in difficult times.

Thank you for standing with us and for helping us keep this safe, supportive space alive for the children who need it most.

Warm regards,
The Care2Travel Team