The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) will host its third annual summer camp for 140 children from disadvantaged families and orphans in the country of Moldova. The weeklong camp will be held in the village of Sarata-Noua, 62 miles from Chisinau, the capital.

Implemented ADRA’s office in Moldova, the camp will run August 1 to August 8. The children, ranging in age from 8 to 15, are selected from children’s centers, families with disabled or impoverished parents, orphanages, and centers for street children.

The camp will provide a variety of activities for the children, including health and social etiquette classes, arts and crafts, and several sports activities, such as football, volleyball, and tennis classes.

"When we first began this program, we knew that we did not want this to just be a time for rest and distraction for the children," explained Andrei Girleanu, country director for ADRA Moldova. "The main goal of the project was to socialize this group of children, because in their everyday life many are marginalized, and they live in isolation from society. We wanted to show them there are people that care about them, and share with them the warmth that they do not often get the opportunity to feel," he continued.

During camp week, the children also participate in a creativity festival, where they can sing, recite poetry, perform in different plays, and more.

"We want to provide a good experience for the children, where they can experience what a happy childhood feels like, and forget their troubles for a little while," said Girleanu. "We aim to strengthen the children’s self-respect, and validate that they have a place in this world. This feeling will help them to become stronger, and more prepared for everyday life."

ADRA is present in 125 countries, providing community development and emergency management without regard to political or religious association, age, or ethnicity.