Meet Elena
Aged 6, Romania
Elena lives with her parents and her older sister in a two bedroom house made of cement bricks belonging to her father. They have no running water and Elena shares a room and bed with her sister. The family income is coming from a government allowance for poor families and children, which is not covering all the girl's schooling needs. Elena's school performance is satisfactory, but she needs tutoring and encouraging in order for her to perform better. Her parents have little education and are unable to tutor her. Seeing her older sister progress since she came into the Stand by Me sponsorship programme, they have now enrolled Elena too. Elena is an energetic and happy girl. She enjoys being in the programme and has made many friends. Elena loves the colour red and enjoys eating pizza.
Where Elena lives
Even as a member of the European Union, Romania still suffers huge corruption and many families live in conditions that fall below the poverty line. A corrupt educational system has meant that a good education is unattainable for many children. Thousands of young adults are suffering the effects of growing up in desperately underfunded state orphanages, traumatised by the dirty conditions and undignified treatment.
Our Denisa Day Care Centre is providing free education, daily food and family support to children who are trapped in poverty and illiteracy. Our children's home provides a loving family to rescued girls who are growing into confident young women.
Why Stand by Me?
How your donation is used
92% of your donation will be used to directly provide the best care possible for Elena. We’ll use the remaining 8% to support the work of Stand by Me and find a sponsor for the next child.
What you receive
When you sponsor Elena you will receive a pack in the post with his story and photo. Every year you will receive an update about his/her progress, a new photo and at least one communication from him/her.
Real relationship
We know our kids love to receive your letters and write back so we encourage you to write as many letters as you like, along with photos and birthday gifts to develop a genuine relationship.
Not sure yet?
Ask us anything. We’ve helped sponsors change 1000s of kids’ lives, and we know it can be a big decision. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
