Children's Center Plovdiv
In 2008, we inaugurated the Agapedia Children's Center Plovdiv, which is now a second home to abandoned children who live in nearby public children's homes. At the Children's Center, we offer these children cooking classes, computer courses, homework assistance, creative workshops and help them acquire the skills they need. The intensive relationship work with our committed staff in particular motivates and supports children in their ambition to finish school.
Our work is important because having a good school education and training are crucial for integration into Bulgarian society. Our social workers assist teenagers between 15 and 18 on their way out of public institutions and into an independent life. They assist teenagers when it comes to communicating with the authorities, searching for housing, registering and applying for schools and choosing a vocational training course. In addition, our staff visit another public children's home for children aged 0 to 6 in Plovdiv and one in Lissiteschevo village, around 50 km outside Sofia. They play with children, celebrate their birthdays, craft with them and establish a trusting relationship amidst these desolate surroundings.