Eight Moldovan children and youth in the care of Children’s Emergency Relief International recently set out to give back to others in need through partnership with a church that helps people with disabilities.

The church struggles to have the resources and volunteers necessary to meet all of the needs that come in. With the children’s willingness and dedication, the partnership was a perfect match, said Connie Belciug, CERI national director for Moldova.

Youth from CERI’s quality of life and transitional care programs in Moldova volunteered to help a family in need. (PHOTO/CERI)

“It was touching to see the children’s enthusiasm for helping those who are also struggling,” Belciug said.

“It truly is a gift from God to see beyond personal hardship and recognize our responsibility to love and serve one another. These children—many who were orphaned because of terrible tragedies—are now serving others because they know God first loved them.”

The children and youth from CERI’s quality of life and transitional care programs, together with their case manager, Elena Iaconi, set aside a Saturday to help one family in particular, the Craciuns.

When the group arrived at the family’s home, Ion Craciun struggled to meet the children at his apartment door, fully relying on his crutches to make the short walk. His smile and his wife’s tears showed their gratitude.

The children and youth immediately went to work, cleaning the family’s fourth-floor apartment from top to bottom. The youth even took the garbage, which had been piling up for some time, down the stairs—a task Craciun could not accomplish without an elevator.

The youth left the family happy, knowing they were able to help in God’s ministry.

“Our CERI youth know there is a great need in helping people with disabilities. The children don’t do it for a reward though, but instead for the love and name of Jesus Christ,” Belciug said.

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