Republica Moldova

New Maternal Centre Opened in Cahul

Cahul, October 18, 2007 – Today, with assistance from the United States government, mothers and pregnant women in southern Moldova will have a support centre to go to in times of crisis and need.  The Cahul Maternal Centre “Încredere” (“Trust”), established under the Better Opportunities for Women and Youth Project, provides beneficiaries with critically needed housing and support services to enable them to lead a prosperous and independent life.

Following the ceremony, a forum was held on the “Cooperation between Civil Society and the Local Public Administration in Cahul Rayon”.  NGOs and local public administration representatives from the region discussed increased cooperation and mutual support.

The Maternal Centre “Încredere” is the only housing center in southern Moldova for mothers and pregnant women, accommodating 10 women at a time.  With conditions similar to a family home and caring staff, the shelter seeks to preserve and strengthen the mother and child relationship.  During their stay, beneficiaries receive medical and counseling services, life skills development, vocational training and assistance in job placement.  Professional social workers are on hand to support the women as they are reintegrated into society.

The Centre is managed by the NGO “Încredere” and is a component of the Better Opportunities for Women and Youth project, implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Moldova and funded by the US Government through the United States International Agency for Development (USAID) under President’s Bush Anti-Trafficking Initiative.

The ceremony was attended by the United States Ambassador to Moldova, Michael D. Kirby, representatives of UNDP Moldova and of local public administration, mass-media. 
“In Moldova, lack of employment opportunities and large-scale out-migration have resulted in an alarming trend of human trafficking – said His Excellency at the inauguration. I believe the Maternal Centre opened today is an important step, however small, towards reducing this trend.”

“Încredere” is the seventh centre launched under the Better Opportunities project.  The project has also established a Maternal Centre in Drochia and Social Reintegration Centres for Youth in Ungheni, Carpineni (Hincesti), Soroca, Edinet and Calarasi.

 

*** *** ***
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN’s global development network, advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience and resources to help people build a better life.
*** *** ***
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) provides economic and humanitarian assistance in more than 100 countries to provide a better future for all. The Better Opportunities for Women and Youth Project in Moldova is part of President Bush’s world-wide $50 million Anti-Trafficking Initiative.