Romania
Where Dorcas began
Romania holds a special place in Dorcas history. It was the first country where the organisation became active, after founder Rina Geurink visited in 1981 to support persecuted Christians under the communist regime.
What started as a small relief effort grew into a lasting commitment to the Romanian people. Today, Dorcas Romania works with local partners across the country to strengthen communities and create opportunities for those who need them most.
Population: 19.6 million · Poverty rate: 7% · Our reach in 2024: 29,464 people
Overview
Dorcas Romania focuses on changing mindsets and promoting social inclusion. Our programmes target older people living in isolation, Roma communities facing discrimination, and families caught in cycles of poverty.
We work alongside local organisations to address the root causes of exclusion. Through education, community building and economic empowerment, we help minority groups and vulnerable populations claim their place in society.
Social Entrepreneurship
Our Farmer Field School programme teaches smallholder farmers sustainable agriculture techniques, helping them improve yields and earn a stable income. Participants learn to work with the land rather than against it.
At the Suckar Center, Roma women learn to sew professional clothing, gaining both a marketable skill and financial independence. These women often become role models in their communities, proving that change is possible when people get a real chance.
Roma Inclusion
Dorcas supports Roma children through education programmes that go beyond the classroom. We believe lasting change requires educating the full family unit, so parents are actively involved in their children's learning journey.
Our teams also work on prevention of human trafficking and domestic violence, two issues that disproportionately affect Roma communities. By combining awareness campaigns with direct support, we help families break free from harmful patterns.
Safety Nets for Older People
Many older people in rural Romania live alone, with limited access to healthcare and social services. Dorcas builds community networks that connect these individuals with volunteers and local authorities who can provide regular support.
Our Blue Bucket Campaign is one of the ways we raise awareness and mobilise communities. The campaign brings neighbours together to look after isolated elderly people, making sure no one is forgotten.
Roma Inclusion Tarian: Finding Common Ground
Response to Ukraine Crisis
When the war in Ukraine forced millions of people to flee their homes, Dorcas Romania quickly set up humanitarian aid operations along the border. Our teams provided shelter, food and essential supplies to refugees arriving in the country.
Working with local churches and partner organisations, we continue to support Ukrainian families who have settled in Romania, helping them rebuild their lives while far from home.
Meet our Country Director
Attila Daray - Country Director Romania
'I grew up in northwestern Romania. My family belonged to a minority group; we were oppressed and lived in poverty. This personal experience drives my commitment to fighting inequality and helping marginalised communities build a better future.'
Our partners
Dorcas works together with local partners and international organisations in Romania.
- ASA Association Tarian
- Betania Christian Center Oradea
- Diakonia Christian Foundation Cluj-Napoca
- Fileo Community Development Association Botosani
- Lord's Army Association Gherla
- Pro Christo et Ecclesia Association
- FOND
- Roma Workers Network
- ADV Social Economy Network
- PROTECT
- CPOE
- RENASIS
Contact Dorcas Romania
Str. Blajului 27
Cluj-Napoca
Romania
Phone: (+40) 0264 416336
Email: office@romania.dorcas.org
