September 19, 2024
News
Elena, a 47-year-old woman living with a mental disorder, recently moved to the Viitorul protected house in Moldova. Here, she found a supportive environment where she can learn to live independently and feel included. The protected housing, opened by Caritas Czech Republic, offers personalised care, helping residents like Elena develop vital skills such as social interaction, communication, and household management.
Protected housing: an important step towards independence
Elena, originally from the village Leușeni in Moldova's Telenești district, moved to the Viitorul protected house in June 2024. "Before this, I lived at the Temporary Placement Centre for Persons with Disabilities in Bădiceni," she shares. "I applied to be accepted into the protected house because I felt that it was the only place where I would find the peaceful and supportive environment I needed."
Protected houses like "Viitorul" provide not only a roof over residents' heads but also psychological and material support. This environment helps residents gradually adapt to independent living. Elena receives assistance from Stela, the social manager of the house, who plays an essential role in her life. "Ms. Stela guides and motivates me in all my activities. She is by my side in any crisis and offers me the necessary support. For me, she is like a mother,” says Elena.
Psychological and material support: the key to a better life
At the "Viitorul" protected house, residents receive not only economic support, but also psychological assistance. The staff here contribute daily to the well-being of the residents and give them the confidence to actively participate in the community. "The team here inspires us to work together, and this is reflected in the daily activities we carry out at the house," says Elena.
In her free time, Elena enjoys knitting and painting, two of her favourite activities. Additionally, she loves cooking various dishes and browsing the internet, although access to social networks is sometimes limited due to a lack of funds for internet access. "I like watching TV and using my phone, but sometimes I can't afford internet. However, I still enjoy every moment," she confides.
For Elena, going to church plays an essential role in maintaining her spiritual balance. "The church helps me feel better when I am nervous or stressed. On holidays, I am happy that I can go to church thanks to the protected house," she says with gratitude.
Elena emphasises how important the support she receives at the house is: “I am very grateful to the staff and everyone who made this possible. Thanks to them, I feel accepted in society, guided, and motivated every day. In short, I feel at home.”
Protected housing, like the "Viitorul" house, is a concrete example of how community initiatives can transform the lives of vulnerable people. They not only prevent social isolation but also create opportunities for integration and active participation in the community. De-institutionalisation and personalised support help people with disabilities regain their autonomy and dignity.
Caritas Czech Republic: Initiatives in Moldova
Caritas Czech Republic in Moldova remains committed to supporting people in need, offering practical and humane solutions to ensure a better life for those who require assistance. We have opened 11 home care centres in Moldova, thanks to financial support from the Czech Development Agency.
We have introduced telemedicine services in 8 health centres in Moldova. As part of this development, 24 medical and social assistants and volunteers provide consultations and care for elderly individuals or those in need of permanent care.
