Safer, more comfortable environment at domestic violence victim centers of Moldova; institutions receive equipment, furniture

The centers for women and children hit by domestic violence from Causeni, Balti, and Stefan Voda have received support on behalf of UN Women Moldova, benefiting from IT equipment, furniture, home appliances and toys. These donations help create a safer and more comfortable environment for housed persons. .

According to State Secretary of the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, Felicia Bechtold, this support is essential for providing a new beginning to the beneficiaries.

“The ongoing support provided by UN Women Moldova is crucial for creating a safer and more stable environment for women and children victims of domestic violence. These donations are not just about improving the physical conditions of the centers, but also about rebuilding trust and offering a real chance to start a new life. It is extremely important that every woman and child has access to a place where they feel protected, respected and supported, in order to overcome past traumas,” noted Felicia Bechtold.

A UN Women Moldova representative, Svetlana Andries, emphasized that preventing violence and supporting survivors were priorities for the organization.

“Developing and equipping integrated and specialized services are fundamental for providing effective support to violence survivors. Moreover, in addition to essential services, the economic empowerment of women and children affected by violence is crucial for rebuilding their autonomy and integrating into a healthy society. At the same time, providing access to education, professional training and economic opportunities can transform their lives, providing them not only with protection, but also a real chance to build a better future, based on independence and respect,” Svetlana Andries said.

Cristina Ciubuc, director of the “Pro Familia” Center from Causeni, said that the donations were welcome and facilitated the integration of women and children.

“With the support of the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection and UN Women Moldova, we have managed to significantly improve the conditions at the center. The available budget only allows us to purchase essential equipment and recent donations have completely changed the atmosphere. Thus, we have created a safer and more comfortable space where our beneficiaries and their children feel protected and respected,” Cristina Ciubuc noted.

The director of the social assistance center for the mother-child couple and children at risk in the village of Olanesti, Stefan Voda district, said that the help provided to women at risk was timely and provided them with a safe environment.

“We make every effort, so that these children grow up to be good people. We have challenges, but we do our utmost to provide them with a safe and stable environment. Every child who comes here has a sad story behind him/her, but with the right support, we manage to give them a chance at a better future,” says Aliona Golubenco.

The Family Crisis Center “SOTIS” from Balti also offers support to victims of domestic violence, helping them reintegrate socially and professionally.

“We work on integrating children into school and preschool institutions; the employment of mothers during their stay with us and meeting other needs. Every year, we try to invest in repairs and improvements, so that when a woman or girl comes to the institution, she feels comfortable. The donation provided by UN Women has helped create a better environment for both the center’s beneficiaries and the employees,” said the center’s director, Oxana Ilco.

Thanks to the support provided by UN Women Moldova and the sustained efforts of the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, these centers continue to provide protection and support to those most in need. In a society where victims of violence are often marginalized, the existence of such shelters represents an essential step towards recovery and social reintegration.