We all know about domestic violence. It touches us indirectly through television, radio, magazines and social media. We may personally know families experiencing pain. And, while some are concerned about this trend, others are indifferent, considering it normal behavior—at least for Romania. When we hear of special cases, however—cases of spousal murder, suicide or extreme violence—we ask, "Is there any hope for these women?"
Since 2009 The Adventist Development and Relief Agency in Romania (ADRA Romania) has headed the Emergency Relief Center for Victims of Domestic Violence, also known as ADRA House. This project provides domestic violence victims with shelter, social and psychological counseling, emergency medical assistance, food and access to a lawyer.
The women who come to the center learn to live without physical, verbal, economic, psychological, sexual and religious violence. Instead, they discover spiritual values and cultivate healthy habits in diet, exercise, training and recreation.
One woman said, "I felt alone and helpless. I was afraid, and no one explained what was happening to me. I had a long, hard road to go. By coming to ADRA House, I feel that I have a new chance at life. I now have freedom and peace to take care of my children, something I have not been able to do. "
"In a society with a high level of intra-family violence and a social infrastructure that is insufficiently developed to respond to increased demands, the ADRA House becomes a refuge for women who want to regain lost dignity in dysfunctional relationships," said Valentina Sturzu-Kozici, Project Manager for ADRA Romania.
At present, the amount invested by ADRA Romania for each victim hosted at ADRA House is 2500 lei, roughly 645 USD. In the eight years since its inception, ADRA House has assisted more than 1,600 family violence victims, women who, together with their children, seek their right to life without violence and without abuse.
ADRA House needs your help! Join ADRA Romania and invest in the fight against domestic violence. If you would like more information on this project, you may watch a recent Speranta TV program on domestic violence by clicking here.
