At Onecom, our partnership with Hope and Homes for Children is driven by a shared mission: to create stability and opportunity for vulnerable children. This October, our Charity Champion’s team lead, Serena Telling, travelled to Moldova to see firsthand the incredible impact Hope and Homes for Children, alongside their local partner CCF Moldova, are making.
Why Moldova? Understanding the Mission
Moldova faces complex social challenges, with thousands of children growing up in institutional settings that lack essential resources and care. Hope and Homes is working to replace these institutions with family-based solutions, creating nurturing environments where children can truly thrive. This trip provided Onecom with invaluable insight into how our support is driving this critical transformation in Moldova’s childcare system.
Serena's Account: A Journey of Deep Reflection and Hope
Serena, one of our team members on the ground, shares her reflections:
“I recently had the opportunity to visit Moldova to see the incredible work that Hope and Homes for Children is doing to transform the lives of children. While the experience was incredibly rewarding, there were also moments of deep sadness.
One of the most difficult parts of my trip was visiting a baby institution. The environment was cold and clinical, with a strong focus on cleanliness and medical treatment. There was little to no effort to create a loving, homely, and caring atmosphere. I witnessed three babies in a tiny room, devoid of any toys or visual stimulation. The babies were remarkably quiet, which was both heartbreaking and unsettling. The staff seemed pleased with what they were showing us, highlighting the fact that the babies were clean. However, I couldn't help but wonder if these children ever experienced cuddles or love.”
This experience, Serena reflected, underscored the immense need for resources and care that extend beyond the basics. It is about fostering an environment where children feel valued, safe, and cherished.
Support for Vulnerable Families: Breaking the Cycle of Poverty
During the visit, Serena also witnessed firsthand how poverty affects families and the role that Hope and Homes and CCF play in helping break this cycle. Serena shares her experience meeting a family facing significant adversity:
“I visited a family struggling with poverty, neglect, and lack of basic living conditions. Thanks to the interventions of CCF and Hope and Homes, the mother was hopeful about the future and empowered to make changes. They are receiving ongoing support, including access to social services, home improvement assistance, reconnection of electricity, counselling, and support for parenting skills. The children’s love for their mother was evident, and with continued support, this family has a chance at a better future.”
Witnessing the Power of Family: A Visit to a Foster Home
A major highlight for Serena was meeting Tatiana and her family, who, with support from Hope and Homes and CCF, have fostered siblings from an institutional setting. Serena describes the visit:
“I had the privilege of visiting Tatiana’s home. It was filled with warmth and love, and it was immediately clear that she and her husband had created a nurturing environment for their children. The children, ages 10, 11, 14, and 16, were happy and playful, and seemed to fit seamlessly into the family alongside Tatiana’s three biological children. It was a heartwarming experience to witness the love and care that Tatiana and her husband provided to these children.”
A Final Reflection: Our Commitment to Transforming Lives
Reflecting on her journey, Serena shares:
“My trip to Moldova was a transformative experience. I encountered challenges and heartbreaking situations, but I was deeply inspired by the strength and dedication of the staff at CCF Moldova. I learned that there are no quick fixes to the complex issues facing children here. It takes time, patience, and unwavering commitment to create lasting change. I am grateful for the opportunity to have visited Moldova and to have learned more about the incredible work being done by CCF and Hope and Homes for Children.”
How You Can Help
Every bit of support goes a long way in making a difference for children in need. Together with Hope and Homes for Children, Onecom is committed to ensuring that every child has the chance to grow up in a loving family environment. We invite everyone to join us in supporting this mission. Every pound raised and every act of support is a step closer to building a world where children can live safe, fulfilling lives.
You can donate to Hope and Homes for Children’s tireless work here.