Moldova
Bringing generations together
Moldova is the poorest country in Europe. Landlocked between Romania and Ukraine, the nation faces deep poverty and widespread migration. Many working-age adults have left in search of better opportunities abroad, leaving behind vulnerable children and older people who struggle to meet their basic needs.
Dorcas works alongside local partners to strengthen communities across Moldova, connecting generations and building resilience from within. Through education, livelihood programmes and community networks, we support those who have been left behind.
Population: 3.3 million · Poverty rate: 24.5% · Our reach in 2024: 27,171 people
Overview
Dorcas has been active in Moldova since 1999 and works across the country through a strong network of local partner organisations. Together, we focus on creating education and livelihood opportunities for the most vulnerable communities.
Our programmes reach children at risk, older people living in isolation, and families struggling with poverty. By investing in local capacity, we help communities take charge of their own development.
Entrepreneurship
Dorcas supports young people and adults in Moldova with entrepreneurial skills training. Participants learn how to develop a business plan, manage finances and bring products to market. These programmes give people a realistic path towards financial independence.
By strengthening local entrepreneurship, we help reduce dependency on migration and create lasting economic opportunity within Moldovan communities.
Child Protection
Many children in Moldova grow up without one or both parents, who have migrated abroad for work. These children are especially vulnerable to abuse and exploitation. Dorcas runs education programmes that teach children about the risks of sexual abuse and human trafficking.
Through schools, community centres and partner organisations, we equip children with the knowledge and confidence to protect themselves and seek help when needed.
Safety Nets for Older People
Older people in Moldova often live alone and in poverty, with limited access to healthcare and social services. Dorcas mobilises local volunteers and community members to form support networks that regularly visit and assist isolated elderly residents.
Initiatives like the Blue Bucket Campaign and Adopt a Granny connect donors and volunteers directly with older people in need. These community networks provide practical help, companionship and a safety net for those who would otherwise be forgotten.
ABCD: Better Together
Response to Ukraine Crisis
When war broke out in neighbouring Ukraine, Moldova became one of the first countries to receive large numbers of refugees. Relative to its population, Moldova has taken in more Ukrainian refugees than almost any other nation in Europe.
Dorcas and its local partners responded quickly, providing shelter, food, hygiene supplies and psychosocial support to displaced families. Our existing community network in Moldova proved essential in coordinating an effective local response.
Meet our Country Director
Leila Sorbala - Country Director Moldova
'In Moldova, sadly there are many broken families. The separation of children from their parents who work abroad remains one of our biggest concerns. Through our community-based approach, we create safety nets that support these vulnerable children and their families.'
Our partners
Dorcas works together with local partners and international organisations in Moldova.
- A.O. El-Sadai
- A.O. 'The Lord's Army'
- Asociatia de Binefacere 'Elim-Moldova'
- Baptist Euroasiatic Mission
- Christian Foundation Titus
- EBC 'Golgota'
- EBC 'Light to the World'
- EBC 'Emanuel'
- FARM
- Hope to Children
- Institute for Rural Initiatives (iRi)
- Keystone Moldova
- The Salvation Army
- CPOE
- Draagt Elkanders Lasten
- EO Metterdaad
- Kom over en Help
Contact Dorcas Moldova
str. Timisoara 11A
Chisinau MD 2059
Moldova
Phone: +373 22 46 14 46 / +373 67 66 12 84
Email: office@moldova.dorcas.org
Downloads
Download our publications about Dorcas Moldova.