Imagine facing each day with only $2 to live on. For many elderly individuals in Eastern Europe, this is not a hypothetical scenario—it’s their harsh reality. In countries like Moldova, Bulgaria, and Romania, many seniors receive pensions that fall far below the cost of living.
In Moldova, the average pension is about $60 per month, barely enough to cover essential needs. In Bulgaria, around 30% of elderly people live below the poverty line, and many receive pensions as low as $100 per month. In Romania, the situation is similarly dire, with a significant portion of retirees struggling to make ends meet on pensions that often don’t exceed $150 per month.
The consequences are severe: these modest incomes mean that many elderly individuals cannot afford adequate food, medicine, or a safe living environment. They face the constant stress of trying to meet basic needs with insufficient resources. Additionally, economic instability and rising costs further exacerbate their difficulties.
Many seniors find themselves isolated and abandoned, left to cope with mounting medical bills and daily expenses without family support. The lack of adequate social safety nets leaves them vulnerable and in desperate need of assistance.
What they need most is not just financial support but a compassionate response to their plight—one that helps them maintain their dignity and well-being in the face of overwhelming adversity.
Maria...
Maria, 81, from rural Romania, has endured a lifetime of hardship. Born into poverty during the Communist era, she faced severe food shortages and harsh living conditions. Now surviving on a minimal disability allowance of 70 Euros a month, Maria lives in a small, rundown house with her husband and a son with chronic respiratory issues. “Every bit of support I receive from the Mission is so important to me,” Maria says, grateful for the essential food and hygiene items provided. Her story underscores the ongoing struggles of many elderly individuals and the crucial role of compassionate assistance.
Luisa ...
In her 60s, Luisa faced a devastating fire in Sofia, Bulgaria, which destroyed her apartment and left her homeless. With her pension inaccessible and living conditions dire, she ended up on the streets and later in a shelter with no basic necessities. “I never thought I’d end up disabled, without a pension, and with nowhere to call home,” Luisa reflected. Mission Without Borders stepped in, providing daily food and helping her navigate bureaucratic hurdles to access her pension. Luisa’s story illustrates the dire need for support during such crises.
Nina...
Nina, 85, lives in Sarny, Ukraine, a town frequently hit by rocket attacks. Having lived through World War II, Nina understands the horrors of conflict. Her frail health confines her to her home, where she depends on daily hot meals from Mission Without Borders’ Soup Kitchen. Despite her struggles, Nina’s kind eyes and cheerful spirit reflect her resilience. Her experience highlights the need for continuous support and emotional comfort for those in crisis.
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