Imagine being 11 years old and forced to babysit instead of going to school. Picture being a 5-year-old girl, with your biggest dream being to attend school. Imagine having just one pair of shoes preventing you from experiencing all the joys of education.

This is the reality for many children in Bulgaria.

Concordia Bulgaria is part of an international independent organization dedicated to supporting children, youth, and families in disadvantaged situations. Our mission is to provide the necessary resources and opportunities for these people to develop and lead fulfilling, independent lives.

A significant portion of the children in our social programs come from families struggling to meet basic needs, which traps them in a vicious cycle of generational poverty. This robs them of the opportunity for a fulfilling life, education, access to healthcare, and personal development. According to the National Statistical Institute, in 2023, 32.2% of children in Bulgaria are at risk of marginalization and social exclusion—one of the highest rates in Europe.

But there is a way out: education. It is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and ensuring sustainable development. At the core of our mission is the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to rise above their circumstances.

In the past year alone, Concordia Bulgaria conducted 2 453 educational sessions, 4 168 informal education sessions, and 586 psychological support sessions. We focus on prevention of early school dropouts, encouraging children to learn and grow, while also consulting actively with their parents to increase support at home.

Together, we can provide these children with the education and opportunities they need to break free from the cycle of poverty.