A difficult but hopeful journey

For Alesia and Ana, 12 and 10 years old, childhood has not been easy – it has always been a constant battle with difficulties. Their lives changed significantly when the girls’ father was sentenced to prison, while their mother, after forming a new relationship, left their household, leaving them in the care of their grandmother, who, despite her age, did her best to provide the girls with a life worthy of any child.

The grandmother’s love and dedication to the girls immediately changed their situation – but their state became complicated when she faced health problems and was hospitalized. At this time, the mother and her new partner took Ana to Tirana, where she was forced to beg on the streets against her will. For a young child, this experience was painful, traumatic and filled with uncertainty.

After the grandmother returned from the hospital and learned about what had happened, she reacted decisively. She reported the case, and, thanks to the intervention of the authorities, Ana was reunited with her sister. However, the grandmother was clear that the granddaughters needed more stable and secure protection.

Life-changing support

At this point, the project implemented by NISMA Arsis and the Municipality of Durrës, with the support of the EU4Social Care program, got involved by guiding the extended family to take on the responsibility of caring for the girls. Through meetings and counseling, the family was supported and empowered to understand the importance of their role: to provide a healthy environment, prevent the separation of children from the family and protect them from any form of abuse, even from biological parents.

In addition to economic assistance, the family and the girls received psychological support, working with the emotions, trauma and fear experienced. This support became the foundation for restoring a sense of security and building a positive vision for the future.

A new beginning

Thanks to their grandmother’s love, their uncle’s dedication, and the project’s guidance, Alesia and Ana are now growing up in a safer and more stable environment. They are living examples of strength and resilience, showing that when extended families are empowered and supported, children can avoid being separated from their roots and protected from any form of abuse.

Their story is a powerful reminder that every child has the right to live in love, protection, and safety, and that, with the right support, this is always possible.

EU4SocialCare is funded by the European Union, implemented by UNICEF Albania and World Vision Albania, in partnership with Ministry of Health and Social Protection.