Blog | Embrace

[Iași, 6 February 2025] – A new 18-month CERV project co-funded by the European Union (EACEA), EMBRACE, has been launched with the aim of improving the mental health of vulnerable children in Northeast Romania.

The EMBRACE project aims to address mental health issues among vulnerxtable children in deprived villages and small towns from Northeast Romania through a model of school-based interventions that will be piloted in 10 schools covering over 4,500 children from primary to high school level. The implementation of the model will conduct to the development of a prevention toolkit for children addressing the key health determinants of mental health aimed for educating and supporting children, that will be disseminated at country level. The project will provide systematic approach that will engage primarily children, train teachers and professionals to strengthen the supportive networks, facilitate parental engagement and coordinate with local and national services and institutions. Schools will receive tailored assistance for preventing mental health issues and promoting the wellbeing of children for creating a supportive and nurturing learning environment.

This ambitious initiative will involve a consortium of nationally and internationally experienced partners:

Fundatia Serviciilor Sociale Bethany
Fundatia de Sprijin Comunitar
Asociatia “Buna Ziua Copii din România”
Federatia Organizatiilor Neguvernamentale pentru Copil
Evolutionary Archetypes Consulting

The EMBRACE project will focus on:

Developing a comprehensive prevention toolkit: This toolkit will equip children with the knowledge and skills to understand and manage their emotions, build resilience, and cope with stress.
Implementing school-based interventions: The project will introduce innovative programs within schools to create a supportive and nurturing learning environment for children.
Engaging communities: By involving children, volunteers, and community members, the project aims to create a safe and supportive environment for children’s emotional and social development.

“We are thrilled to launch the EMBRACE project,” said Beatrice Darie, Project Manager and Programs Director of Fundatia Serviciilor Sociale Bethany. “This project will play a crucial role in addressing the critical mental health needs of children in Northeast Romania. By empowering children and fostering collaboration among key stakeholders, we can create a brighter future for the next generation.”

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EACEA.

Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

The EMBRACE project is an ambitious initiative funded by the CERV program, aiming to improve the mental health of vulnerable children in Northeast Romania. Recognizing the critical role of mental well-being in a child’s development, this project focuses on implementing school-based interventions and developing a comprehensive prevention toolkit.

Addressing a Critical Need:

Northeast Romania faces significant challenges in addressing the mental health needs of its children. Limited resources, stigma surrounding mental health issues, and a lack of awareness contribute to a system that often fails to adequately support children struggling emotionally. The CERV project seeks to change this by:

Developing a Prevention Toolkit: This toolkit will equip children with the knowledge and skills to understand and manage their emotions, build resilience, and cope with stress.
School-Based Interventions: The project will implement innovative programs within schools to create a supportive and nurturing learning environment. These interventions will involve teachers, parents, and the children themselves in promoting mental well-being.
Community Engagement: By involving children, volunteers, and community members, the project aims to create a safe and supportive environment for children’s emotional and social development.

A Child-Centered Approach:

A unique aspect of the EMBRACE project is its strong emphasis on child participation. Children are actively involved in the development of the prevention toolkit, decision-making processes, and community advocacy efforts. This approach empowers children and ensures that their voices are heard in shaping the interventions that will impact their lives.

The Importance of Collaboration:

The EMBRACE project brings together a consortium of experienced partners, including NGOs, local authorities, and educational institutions. This multi-sectoral collaboration ensures a comprehensive and sustainable approach to addressing the complex issue of child mental health.

Looking Ahead:

The EMBRACE project has the potential to make a significant impact on the lives of children in Northeast Romania. By providing children with the tools and support they need to thrive, this initiative can help build a brighter future for the next generation.

EMBRACE Project Launched: Improving Mental Health for Children

Fostering Mental Well-being in Romanian and all Children