World Vision Assisting in Flood-Devastated Romania

Heavy flooding, the worst in 35 years, has hit the north-west region of Romania and more than 3,500 people have been displaced in seven counties. A majority of the devastation has been seen at the border with Serbia and Montenegro, and World Vision is concentrating on emergency relief efforts in two of the worst hit villages - Foeni and Uuivar.

Due to constant heavy rain, around 5,000 homes in 145 villages and towns have been damaged and telephones and electricity have been cut off. Destroyed bridges and dykes have made many roads impassable and drinking water has been cut in some areas.

"I have never seen anything like this before. The houses are collapsing before our eyes. I am in a village completely drowned underwater. I can only stay on a small island. People are desperate and wait for help. Little has been done for them so far," shared Eugen Bolrea, World Vision’s Relief Team Leader.

So far, seven tonnes of relief supplies have arrived in Foeni village in Timis county, about 200 kilometres north-west from Bucharest. Following a survey of affected areas, and discussions with the local authorities, a number of communities have been found that can only be reached by helicopter or heavy tractors.

World Vision, a Christian relief and development organisation has emphasised its dedication to helping children and their communities worldwide reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty. Plans have been put in place to use the funds raised by a national telethon for reconstruction of houses and schools lost to the waters.