COVID Update
In total 3 months of 2021 where in lockdown, however during this time ZOV had special permission to work directly with the children. The only restrictions that remain are those related to student volunteer 70% of which can only work with the children online. By the 20th March 2022 all COVID restrictions are to be removed
Highlights
ZOV organised for 180 children from 13 centres to receive Christmas presents and a party
120 children took part in a Christmas Bazaar, raising money through selling gifts they had made in learning sessions organised by ZOV.
ZOV won another award for the garden at the crisis centres and all sports and recreational activities. This award was given by the Child protection agency in recognition of good practice and excellent partnerships.
19 older children participated in the work experience programme and for the first time, children with special needs were included. Many of them received offers of full or part-time employment.
In order to celebrate the Crisis Centre for Girls’ 15th year anniversary, a big party was organised, showcasing the art work and dances the girls had learnt in the ZOV sessions
114 children from 9 centres went on a week-long summer holiday organised by ZOV with the support of Friends of Bulgaria, as well as on trips to historic sites in June – Sept 2021.
Children won 22 medals in two sports tournaments one in Sofia and another in Targovishte. Sports included football, badminton, running and athletics all sports ZOV classes support.
ZOV was able to donate 6 new computers to the centres to help improve online working. They included new equipment and we provided lessons to help the children learn how to look after them. A Big thank you to Dimi and George Velikov and CORDET for making this happen.
ZOV has been asked by the Municipality to become an expert member of the Regional Committee for Social Support involved in child social service policy making.
ZOV together with Tsani Giachev School in Lyaskovets organised a national exhibition attended by over 382 children from 54 schools in Bulgaria. The exhibition showcased children with special needs creativity including a display of art work. It was a great way to encourage inclusion, awareness and acceptance involving parents and staff.
Spring charity bazaar was a great success with over 100 children and young people participating from 11 centres. The bazaar was outside and provided a wonderful day to look forward to for many of the children. It was also supported by the local municipality.
ZOV won another award for the garden at the crisis centres and all sports and recreational activities. This award was given by the Child protection agency in recognition of good practice and excellent partnerships.
“Congratulations to the friends from ZOV and of course to the girls! With care and responsibility, change is achievable and great”, Rositsa Dimitrova, Head of Social Department in VT Municipality
NEW PROJECT 2021: Crisis Centre for Women and Children
We have started working with a new centre for women and child at risk Each session is a good opportunity to bring people together, with ZOV staff using occupational therapy models to improve everyday living. Many of the sessions we do are creative to encourage communication – the things we have made include painting glass bottles, knitting and making necklaces
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