Andrei Esanu: "Strong families and peaceful family environments contributes to a stable society"

When and why your organization was created?

NGO Federatia Familiilor pentru Unificare si Pace in Lume din Moldova (FFUPLM) was registered officialy on 8th of July 1997 in Moldova. The reason for creating the NGO was to address various issues related to families, unity, and peace within Moldova. The founders have recognized the significance of strong families and peaceful family environments in contributing to a stable society and a harmonious world. 

The organization’s objectives include promoting healthy relationships within family and between families, supporting families in need, engaging in children education, and advocating for greater support for families.

What kind of families do you help? In what issues do you help them?

We focus on building strong, happy, and healthy families. Their assistance targets vulnerable and non-vulnerable families, helping them integrate into the community through activities that promote social cohesion. 

The organization provides support for basic needs, offers psycho-social support, and educates families to change unhealthy behaviors. By addressing various aspects of family well-being, the NGO Federatia Familiilor aims to create a positive impact and contribute to a more harmonious society in Moldova.

Can you tell me about the main projects of your organization?

One of the main projects of the NGO is centered around establishing a development center for children. This project aims to provide children with education and psycho-social support, creating a nurturing environment for their growth and well-being. By focusing on the younger generation's education and emotional needs, the organization aims to contribute to building strong and healthy families, fostering a positive impact within the community.

The development center's core mission aligns with the organization's broader objective of promoting unity and peace in families and society. Through this project, the NGO "Federatia Familiilor" seeks to empower children with essential skills, ensuring their overall development and preparing them for a brighter future, thereby strengthening families and promoting social cohesion.

I have seen that your organization opened a refugee center called Sunflower. What can you tell me about it?

The Sunflower Center, established by FFUPLM in the capital city Chisinau, responds to the refugee crisis in Moldova by providing vital support to Ukrainian refugee families. As of August 3, 2023, there are 113,111 registered Ukrainian refugees in Moldova, including 48,957 children. The center offers psychosocial support, structured educational programs, and various activities for children aged 0 to 13, addressing the challenges faced by refugee families, such as language barriers and lack of access to services. 

Additionally, the center supports caregivers through therapy, training, and career development. By working closely with refugees and UNHCR, the Sunflower Center adapts its services based on feedback, ensuring that it meets the specific needs of the target population. The center also aims to enhance children's academic and technological skills, preparing them for future educational challenges. Overall, the Sunflower Center plays a crucial role in providing a sense of community, safety, and support during the displacement of refugee families in Moldova.

What is the reality of people with psycho-social disabilities in Moldova? Do they face any difficulty getting involved in society? 

In Moldova, people with psycho-social disabilities often face significant challenges and discrimination in society. The reality for these individuals can be tough, as they encounter barriers in accessing education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. Stigma and misconceptions about mental health can lead to social exclusion, making it difficult for them to integrate fully into society. Due to the lack of understanding and awareness about psycho-social disabilities, many individuals and their families struggle to find appropriate support and resources to improve their quality of life.

How do you help them?

To address this issue, the FFUPLM implements a project aimed at providing support to people with psycho-social disabilities and their families. By assisting them in finding employment opportunities, the organization endeavors to combat discrimination and empower individuals to become active members of the workforce and society. Through education, advocacy, and working with employers to foster inclusivity, the project seeks to create a more accepting environment where people with psycho-social disabilities can thrive and contribute their skills and talents to the community.