Local women encourage Romania volunteers

A HUMANITARIAN organisation is calling for people to follow in the footsteps of Londonderry women Pamela Mullan (Housing Executive) and Grainne Robinson (Habinteg), who last year worked together to build ten homes alongside orphan headed households in Romania.
By The Newsroom
Published 13th May 2010, 12:01 BST

Habitat for Humanity are calling on volunteers from across Northern Ireland to build big in Romania from 2nd – 9th October 2010. Big Build 09 was a huge success with volunteers of all ages and skill including the Londonderry women.

Last year's build was an amazing experience for all those who were part of it. Not just for the 10 families whose lives have been transformed but for every volunteer who had a hand in making it happen.

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This year's Big Build takes us to Beius to rebuild the 'White House' where 8 families are currently living in terrible conditions.

Two duplexes will also be built delivering simple, decent shelter for 4 families in need. During one week in October volunteers will help 12 families build houses, build a community and build hope.

Londonderry woman Pamela Mullan said: "Big Build 2009 was a wonderful experience. It was hard work but being able to hand over keys to a house which you helped to build at the end of the week was such an achievement; you really felt that you had made a difference. Both Grainne and I would encourage anyone to join Big Build 2010."

Thirt-five per cent of total housing stock in Romania is in the state of complete neglect and needing urgent repairs. Progress towards a stable economy has been slow and difficult after years of the oppressive Ceausescu's rule. Real wages for working Romanian families have dropped by about 40 per cent since the collapse of communism.

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In addition to the economic toll, Romania faces the challenge of thousands of children orphaned under the previous communist regime. This economic and social legacy has left many in Romania without decent shelter.

Building alongside families in need provides volunteers an opportunity to learn first-hand about the need for decent housing but also challenges those who take part as perspectives are broadened, skills developed and lives changed.

To register for Big Build 2010 or to find out more information log onto to www.habitatni.co.uk or call Habitat for Humanity on 90243686