Weekly update 35/26 Engels

The drought in Romania and the daily heat continue to persist and have by now had far-reaching consequences. 2026 is already marked by rising unemployment and businesses forced to close their doors. The persistent drought and heat are certainly not improving the economic situation. Unfortunately, the fourteen-day weather forecast shows little change so far. Significant rain remains absent for the time being.

The ongoing war in Ukraine also has an impact on Romania. The country lies close to the war zone and is experiencing the consequences of this in various areas.

We cannot solve the drought. Nor the economic problems. But we can try to extend a helping hand where necessary.

Last Wednesday, August 26, we were able to load another trailer. Fortunately, there were enough well-motivated volunteers present to quickly load a nice shipment of relief goods destined for Breaza.

There were various pickup jobs, people came to drop off goods, and people were working hard everywhere. It was a hive of activity once again.

At 2:30 PM, we were able to head home feeling good. The truck was by then on its way to Venlo, from where the journey continues by train towards Romania.

Here is the link to a photo album

Attila's farm in Marghita has a well-functioning irrigation system. The necessary water comes from a lake of approximately 15 hectares, which is fed by a natural spring.

But there, too, the consequences of the drought are now becoming painfully visible. The water level in the lake is now so low that insufficient water can be pumped out. This is a major setback, especially for vegetable and potato cultivation. It is precisely the crops that depend on irrigation during this dry period that are once again coming under pressure.

Attila sent us a series of photos of the delivery of the backpacks made by Miranda and the youth club of the Reformed Church in Broek op Langedijk and filled with school supplies for children in Rontău . Along with the backpacks, a nice batch of potatoes and vegetables was delivered. 

When you go to school, it is naturally part of being clean, wearing decent clothes, and having a backpack with school supplies. Unfortunately, for children growing up in difficult circumstances, this is not a given.

That is precisely why it is so valuable that people here in the Netherlands are committed to changing this. A small backpack might seem like just a small gesture, but for a child, it can provide a sense of dignity, pride, and belonging.

Here is the link to a photo album

Marin and Enico from Band have simply continued their work. Despite all the problems many people in the villages are facing, they try to help wherever necessary.

Here is the link to a photo album

Henk Muller has also shared his activities with us again.

Here is the link to a photo album

Reghina from Ticau is also doing her work tirelessly. Backpacks with school supplies have been made for the children in Ticau as well. Unfortunately, we accidentally failed to load a box of backpacks on time in Broek op Langedijk. Fortunately, delay does not mean cancellation: this coming Wednesday, they will still be included in the transport to Marghita and from there on to Ticau.

Along with the majority of the backpacks, Attila also had a nice batch of potatoes and vegetables delivered to Reghina.

Here is the link to a photo album

Joszi from Târgu Mureș has also shared photos of his activities again. There, too, attempts are being made, often under difficult circumstances, to help people who are in danger of falling through the cracks.

Here is the link to a photo album

Of course, Viorel and Elena from Deaj couldn't be left out. Like practically every week, they too have once again done all sorts of things for their fellow man. The photos they send us show how much work is being done and how many people benefit from it.

Here is the link to a photo album

This coming Wednesday, September 2nd, we will be loading another trailer. This cargo is going to Marghita first and then on to Breaza.