The results of the unprovoked war on the Ukraine has caused an catastrophic and heartbreaking humanitarian crisis
5 million Refugees have fled the Ukraine as of April 19 2022 
7.1  million people have been displaced thus far

This is the greatest refugee crisis in Europe since World War II

The largest refugee destination is Poland, followed by Romania, Moldova, Slovakia and Hungary

Women and children comprise 90% of the fleeing people

Churches around the world are appealing for help to humanitarian support

(PCUSA)  Presbyterian Foundation and World Mission is working with partners to aid those impacted by the war

Here is a place where St Thomas has selected as a worthwhile organization:  NOROC 

NOROC stands for New Opportunities for Romanian Orphaned Children. This organization is caring for the orphans of Tulcea.

The Ukrainian refugee crisis has created a massive  new challenge.   Between 200-500 refugees, mostly mothers and children, are entering Romania daily at the Isaccea border crossing closest to Tulcea.

They are met by Romanian officials including Customs Officers, Border Police, a representative of the Tulcea City Council and of the Tulcea County Council, and a representative of the Department of Protection for Children.

The refugees are first vetted for legitimacy and then are essentially “triaged” to evaluate their immediate needs and determine how best to meet those needs. 

Isaccea is a village of 5,000-6,000 people, so the village itself has few resources to deal with this crisis.) 

After their needs are determined a decision on where to send them is made.  Some people are sent directly to other locations in Romania, some to other countries, and some stay in Tulcea County, mostly on a temporary basis.  Some have families in other European countries.  

As a licensed and accredited NGO in Romania, NOROC is then called and Team NOROC addresses the needs of the refugees sent to 5 distinct locations in and around Tulcea.  One of those sites is for unaccompanied minors.  

As NOROC learns of the needs, their team responds according to those needs which may be food, clothing, medicine, diapers, transportation, fuel, or help with utilities for housing.

The situation and the needs are very fluid and vary from place to place.  Many refugees are only there for a few days before moving on, and then they are replaced by others.  Even when the war is over the crisis will continue, as refugees flee their devastated country.

There also are less tangible needs for the refugees.  They are traumatized and in need of food for their minds and souls as well as their bodies.  Team NOROC is trained to minister to those needs as well, and is rising to the occasion. 

Matt Skolnik’s Presbytery Council of the Muskingum Valley has established global missions funding  to match any donations that are received in support of the NOROC ministries

Your support is welcome and can make a huge difference abused 

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