Work first began on the orphanage in 1998 when the charity purchased land and had drawn up plans to rehouse the children who were being kept in cramped conditions in the old orphanage. What began as a modest building has now far-surpassed the expectations of everyone involved, ending up a substantial project completed in two phases.

This ambitious project is a testament to the generosity of the people in the North West and beyond, including Omagh, Dublin, Inishowen, and even America! Volunteers’ efforts to fund and finish this work knew no boundaries.

The recent official opening was attended by many of the group’s volunteers, funders and fundraisers who have supported the long battle to raise funds and in some cases those who actually carried out tasks like plastering, painting, tiling, plumbing and even cleaning up. No job was ever too big or too small for those dedicated to working for the children and improving their quality of life.

The charity’s chairman, Sean Young, spoke about the work they have carried out throughout the years and went on to mention and applaud some of the volunteers who worked with the charity who have now passed away, mentioning specifically Harry Boyle, Martin Diver and George Holmes. Sean went on to emphasise that all money collected through the charity goes directly to the care of the children.

The opening ceremony for the children’s home was then carried out by cutting a ribbon of the Romanian colours. This task was carried out by charity volunteer Sean Melarkey as well as an official from the Romanian Child Protection Services, a group that has worked closely with the North-West Romanian Fund since its inception.

North West fund

The North-West Romanian Fund will next year celebrate 20 years of working in Romania and is keen to highlight the fact that it was the organisation through which substantial donations were channelled to those most in need in Romania. The people of the North-West who have contributed so generously to the Fund over the years should get the credit.