World Vision renovates an educational center to empower children with disabilities in Moldova

Chisinau, Moldova - World Vision has long been committed to creating inclusive programs for all children. One notable partnership has been with Orfeu, a pioneering educational complex in Chisinau, that specializes in supporting children with disabilities. Orfeu is widely regarded for its outstanding work and extensive expertise in working with vulnerable girls and boys. 

Many of the families with children attending Orfeu are from vulnerable, low-income backgrounds, with single-parent households being especially common. Often, these families rely on just one income. As a result, most parents struggle to afford extra activities and essential therapies for their children.

To help address these challenges, World Vision began the rehabilitation of a resource center, located in the Orfeu educational complex, designed to provide a space for children with disabilities to continue their activities after school hours.

The resource center underwent vital cosmetic renovations and was fully equipped with essential furnishings, including couches, desks, shelves, carpets, and educational materials. This effort was made possible through the support of World Vision Finland.

The collaboration between World Vision and Orfeu staff was crucial in ensuring that the center was tailored to meet the unique needs of children with disabilities. “Not all toys would be suitable for the center, as the children could be sensitive to certain materials. Everything needed to be carefully selected,” explained Silvia Mirzenco, director of the center.

World Vision has helped build something enduring that will benefit generations to come. This center will play a key role in the successful integration of children with disabilities into society, offering them purpose and hope. 

The new center was officially opened on January 30th 2025, with parents, staff, and community members in attendance. What started as a cold, empty room has now been transformed into a warm, light-filled space designed to support the well-being of the children. "Together with the school and parents, we have created a peaceful environment that is truly suited to the children’s needs," Mirzenco added.

“World Vision has helped build something enduring that will benefit generations to come. This center will play a key role in the successful integration of children with disabilities into society, offering them purpose and hope,” share Natalia Cucu, World Vision’s project manager. 

“You cannot fully grasp how important this center is to our institution, and the incredible opportunities it now opens up for the children,” concluded Mirzenco. 

World Vision has reached to over 433,000 children in Moldova with protection, mental health and psychosocial support, education, and basic needs programs. 

Story and photos by Natalia Cucu, World Vision Moldova Operations Team