I spotted Emira, a 9-year-old, at the Resilience Community Center in Durrës. She sat quietly, engrossed in a book, her fingers skillfully sketching a flying bird. Her art, filled with vibrant colors, left me amazed.

Though Emira seldom used words to express herself, her eyes conveyed a depth of emotion that spoke volumes.

I soon learned that Emira's childhood had been marred by profound sorrow, as she endured domestic violence inflicted by her father.  Despite her mother's initial report of the violence, she later withdrew it. Tragically, the violence escalated, resulting in the fatal murder of Emira's mother, witnessed by her and her brothers.

Imagine three orphaned children, left to grieve for their mother, with no support. In their darkest hour, Emira's aunt came to help, embracing the role of caregiver and becoming their legal guardian.

Emira and her brothers were in desperate need of assistance. And when you seek help with determination, it often finds its way to you.

Durrës Resilience Center, operating in partnership with the Municipality and the civil society organization "Today for the Future," extended a helping hand. Following a referral from the school's psychosocial service, the Center provided crucial academic support to Emira, who grappled with academic challenges compounded by the emotional scars of her past.

She participated in the “After School” programme, a haven for children from marginalized communities, including Roma, Egyptians, and those with disabilities. It's a place where essential learning skills are developed, empowering children to embrace their full potential.

Emira's aunt and her spouse also found invaluable support through the Resilience Center. Navigating the bureaucracy for scholarship payments and orphanage assistance became a more manageable task, thanks to the guidance they received. Both actively participated in the center's employment mentoring programme, reflecting a holistic approach to the family's well-being and prospects.

"Every child can bloom with the right support. We believe in the power of art as therapy, and the progress we've witnessed with Emira is nothing short of excellent. From a withdrawn child, Emira has blossomed into an active participant, engaging with peers and progressing academically." - Fabiola Laco, Head of the civil society organization.

The Resilience Center in Durrës delivers crucial integrated social services to those in greatest need. In close partnership with frontline professionals, the center offers tailored assistance to women and girls, victims of violence, people with disabilities, the elderly, disadvantaged children, youth, and those from socio-economically challenged families, including female heads of households.

Starting in August 2023, the Durres Resilience Center has supported 124 people, including 89 children and 35 adults. Out of the children receiving help, 29 have joined the "After School" programme, all coming from families facing economic challenges. 

These families include children from Roma and Egyptian communities, children with disabilities, orphans, and those struggling with learning difficulties. Additionally, the Center's mobile services have identified and assisted 73 people, providing services like speech therapy, psychological support, and economic empowerment.