There are thousands of orphaned and abandoned children in Bulgaria. From the very beginning of our work in the poorest country in the EU, FCTrelief has been caring for such children via “Heart for Bulgaria” association. In Pazardzhik, we support them with professional psychological help. Gordon Merk reports.
Zornitsa Gesheva (at the far right in the photo) is a young and friendly psychologist with a heart for children and young people. She works in a home for orphaned and abandoned children and teenagers in Pazardzhik. We have already donated a basketball hoop and other useful items to this home. Zornitsa can only work there part-time due to a lack of funding from the social authorities. “Heart for Bulgaria” supports her so that she can invest more time in helping these children professionally.
During Communism, abandoned and orphaned children, as well as people and children with disabilities, were “cared for” in large institutions, far away and separated from the rest of the population. The conditions were heartbreaking. Human dignity was barely conveyed and care was scarce. Decades ago, a BBC report caused outrage at these wretched conditions. Bulgaria's government came under international pressure. Since joining the EU (2007), many things have changed for the better. In practical terms as well as in its attitude towards people with disabilities or in difficult circumstances.
Zornitsa works in a new form of housing, the so-called “family type.” These are no longer the large institutions of the past, but a kind of large family home. Around fifteen children and young people form a residential group. This allows for a more personal and family-like atmosphere. If a child lacks the warmth of a family environment, this form of accommodation tries to replace this to a certain extent. It allows the staff to care for and work with the children and young people on a more personal level.
Zornitsa's responsibility lies in the area of psychological support. We are all aware that this professional help is needed. Within the limited framework of the home and the number of residents, Zornitsa can provide individual personal support. She works using innovative methods. Communication and support in the areas of school and education are particularly important. The other women on the staff provide motherly love and care. Nikolay Pashov, until recently director of the home, was a father figure to them.
On the whole, everyone is happy with the children's progress. There are some challenges, especially with the teenagers. However, every effort is worthwhile and the perseverance of the staff is commendable. The support from FCTrelief via “Heart for Bulgaria” is very worthwhile.
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