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Description
The project aims to increase the degree of social inclusion and improve access to integrated services for a number of 840 people belonging to vulnerable groups (of which 760 are Roma ethnicity) from disadvantaged areas in Gârceni commune, Vaslui County (Slobozia, Racovița, Trohan and Racova villages). The main activities that will be carried out in the project are: Providing parental education services; Providing material support to children from the target group in order to stimulate school participation and prevent school dropout; Conducting an information campaign on combating school dropout; Providing support to facilitate access to the labour market through professional counselling and mediation services and by organizing a job fair; Increasing access to the labour market by organizing qualification training programmes for various occupations; Activities related to the empowerment of Roma by developing the individual skills and capacities of Roma people; Anti-discrimination activities. In the long run, the positive effect of the project is manifested by the members of the target group overcoming the vulnerability condition as a result of integrated measures in the areas in which they are involved. In addition to the members of the target group, the positive effect of the project will also be exploited by the community as a whole, as a result of the training program for the staff and volunteers involved in the provision of public services to vulnerable groups. The partnership creates an added value to the entire project, consisting of a local authority, which by its very capacity as a public authority that manages the locality from an economic, social and educational point of view has experience in coordinating and managing projects aimed at improving the quality of living standards and two NGOs with relevant experience in coordinating activities on promoting multiculturalism.
Summary of project results
The project was implemented to address the pressing socio-economic challenges faced by Roma communities in Gârceni Commune, Vaslui County. With a Roma population of up to 70.99% in some villages, the community faced severe marginalization, high poverty rates, low educational attainment, and limited access to healthcare and employment. This project aimed to foster social inclusion and empowerment through integrated measures.
The project responded to critical gaps in access to education, employment, and healthcare for vulnerable groups, including 760 Roma individuals. The intervention aimed to provide equal opportunities and sustainable community development.
Key Achievements and Outputs
- Supported 315 children (217 Roma) through after-school program, educational camps, reducing dropout risks and improving academic engagement.
- Delivered vocational training and counseling for 623 individuals, including 543 Roma, enhancing employability in local labor markets.
- Offered dental services to 543 vulnerable individuals and hygiene kits to 315 children, promoting health awareness and improving quality of life.
- Conducted workshops and campaigns targeting Roma women and youth, emphasizing leadership, rights advocacy, and community participation.
- Engaged local authorities, trained 125 professionals in Roma-specific services, and developed anti-discrimination tools, fostering mutual understanding and inclusivity.
The project improved the living conditions of vulnerable Roma groups. School attendance and performance improved among children, employability increased for trained individuals, and access to healthcare services enhanced overall well-being. Additionally, the community benefited from strengthened local capacities and reduced discriminatory attitudes, creating a more inclusive environment.
Through its integrated approach, the project laid a strong foundation for long-term social and economic inclusion. By engaging local stakeholders and empowering beneficiaries, it met its objectives.