"You didn’t just provide firewood, clothing, and school supplies—you gave comfort, dignity, and the reassurance that they are not alone... Together, we are building a future filled with compassion and solidarity"
SVP Romania Volunteer
As December arrives each year and temperatures drop across Romania for winter, families and elderly individuals brace themselves for the tough months ahead.
In 2021, a report by the World Bank Group found that 68.3% of the households in rural areas relied on wood, coal or oil stoves as their heating source. The percentage of households facing difficulty with unpaid utility bills was among the highest in the EU at 17.8%.
Energy poverty impacts the mental and physical health of all family members as well as the educational outcomes of children through reduced comfort, health, and ability to focus. Single person households also have much higher chances of facing energy poverty, and elderly individuals typically live in energy-inefficient housing, increasing their vulnerability.
But SVP Romania is there to provide a warm welcome and support. Volunteers reach out to the most vulnerable and deprived within their community to offer support and a reminder they are not alone.
In December 2025, SVP England & Wales were able to provide an emergency grant of £7000 to help SVP Romania, and in turn support XX elderly individuals, and X families (XX adults and XX children). And as the global cost of living increases, the demand for support only grows as we slowly move towards the winter months again.
Impact of the Winter Relief Programme
For Children: Better living conditions allowed children to focus on their education without the stress of hunger or illness. They had access to nutritious meals and were better protected against seasonal illnesses, creating a healthier and more stable environment for learning and growth.
For Vulnerable Elderly: Elderly beneficiaries experienced not only physical warmth through improved heating, but also emotional warmth through the care and attention provided by the Vincentian volunteers. This support reduced feelings of isolation and gave them a sense of dignity and belonging.
Community Impact: Beyond material aid, the project fostered hope and trust. Families felt they were not alone in their struggles, strengthening community bonds and resilience.
In preparation for the winter of 2026, we are aiming to fundraise £8000 ready to support those most in need come winter 2026.
Please donate here.