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Floodwaters spilling over the banks of rivers have forced the rapid evacuation of some 850 children from counties in northern Romania. Damage to local water systems, houses, bridges and other infrastructures have also been reported. Save the Children has launched an emergency response to support children affected by this flooding.

Save the Children will begin conducting an emergency needs assessment in the hardest-hit communities and, based on children's needs, will begin distributing emergency relief that will include clean water, food, children’s clothing, hygiene supplies and other essential supplies. The agency will also closely monitor children's health needs, as conditions in affected areas are likely to lead to an increase in the number of children suffering from diarrhoea, pneumonia and other diseases.

The agency also plans to initiate activities to help children deal with the stress they are experiencing as a result of the flooding. Such activities may include psychosocial programmes and summer camps for children whose homes were lost — supporting children's needs for normality and routine while also enabling their parents to concentrate on their recovery knowing that their children are safe

 “Many children are suffering from psychological distress following the floods; many have had to flee their houses, and they could have lost family and friends. Our international experience in emergencies means we know that children in these circumstances are the most vulnerable and they need specific support. The activities we will begin are part of this support – they involve getting children to play and share their experiences with other children in a place. These activities help children establish a routine, which is crucial to their recovery,” said Gabriela Alexandrescu Romania CEO, Save the Children.

“Right now we desperately need the financial support to be able to scale up and deliver what we know children and their families need. That is why today, we have launched an appeal for 600,000 euros."

Over the long term, Save the Children response will include daily education activities, rehabilitating and restocking schools and providing school-age children with classroom supplies and school uniforms.

To support Save the Children

Save the Children Romania is urgently seeking €600 000 to support this emergency response. By contributing to our emergency fund, you enable us to prepare and respond immediately to children from Romania who urgently need our help when disasters strike.

To support children and their families to recover in Romania, please visit Save the Children Romania's website to make a donation.

For further information, please contact Camelia Lordache, Save the Children.