Shelter for Abused Women

Sally Macpherson writes:

Bulgaria joined the EU in 2007, after a history of communism followed by a mafia-style government in the 1990s. Today, the wealth gap is increasing, with 35% of rural inhabitants unemployed and those in the city having to work two or three jobs to survive. Not only is Bulgaria the poorest member of the EU, it is also poorer than many of its neighbouring countries unable to enter the EU.

As well as the frustration of living in a society that hasn’t improved, morality is disintegrating. UNICEF say “domestic violence is widespread and serious” and NGOs estimate over 40% of the population suffers domestic violence. As society begins to accept this behaviour as the ‘norm’, more and more women and children are in desperate need of refuge and support.
 

Mission Possible Bulgaria is a Christian social care agency involved in evangelism, education and help for the needy. Having a desire to ‘deliver the spoiled out of the hand of the oppressor’ (Jeremiah 22:3), the team have recently purchased a large building to renovate as a shelter for these women.

A new roof, sewerage, plumbing, new windows and en-suite bathrooms for the 34 rooms are underway. As soon as the structural work is completed, teams from Canada and the UK will have the opportunity to decorate or prepare the extensive grounds for children to play in and for the women to find solitude and relaxation.

From the 2nd - 6th April, I am taking two women from the Bristol organisation ‘Survive’ to train the team who will be working at the shelter, as well as women from around Bulgaria who want to learn more about the issues.

I would really appreciate your prayers for:

• fellowship – particularly between believers and non-believers
• organization
• useful training in a different culture

You can find out more about Eurovangelism at www.eurovangelism.org.uk