N50 Portable Connectivity Center plays vital role to humanitarian projects for Ukrainian refugees in Romania

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Tuesday, March 28, 2023

More than 1,600 Ukrainian children and adults continue to benefit from the Portable Connectivity Centers (PCC) from N50 and Geeks Without Frontiers.

The portable centers are designed to help provide essential power, connectivity and vital information for refugees fleeing the war in Ukraine. In May 2022, the first PCC was established in Romania to help displaced children and families.

Through the centers, children were able to participate in online classes and interact with their peers. Parents have easy access to information available on the internet, or search for a job and work opportunities. It also provides online communications platforms for families to remain connected with their relatives still living in Ukraine.

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The portable containers have played a crucial role in World Vision's humanitarian operations in Romania.

 

The PCC built from “flatpack” containers include device charging capability, access to laptops and necessary equipment to support access to vital information about resources available, including shelter food, and other basic needs. In addition, telehealth services are also available for those seeking medical support.

“The centers also serve as vital hubs for socialization and community-building among Ukrainian now residing in Romania.  They have a space to share and exchange ideas and information,” World Vision Field Officer Alberto Roca said.

"The PCC help foster a sense of belonging and inclusion, which is especially crucial for those who have been affected by the ongoing war", Roca added.

We hope that by creating a supportive and welcoming environment, they will feel relieved of the stress and trauma they have experienced from being forced to leave their homes because of the war

“We hope that by creating a supportive and welcoming environment, they will feel relieved of the stress and trauma they have experienced from being forced to leave their homes because of the war,” Roca added.

Parents and children also have opportunity to participate in various digital, financial, and entrepreneurial training programs to enhance their digital literacy and help them develop valuable professional skills.

“World Vision is grateful for the responsiveness and proactive approach of N50 and Geeks Without Frontiers in addressing the needs and challenges in the center. Their commitment and willingness to collaborate made this project meaningful and beneficial to the Ukrainian community,” Roca said.

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The PCCs are also safe locations for education and protection activities.

 

A key accomplishment of this initiative has been the strategic placement of PCC in areas where significant numbers of Ukrainian people reside. Aside from Bucharest, the PCC were also set up in Brasov and Suceava.

This approach has enabled the centers to reach and help more people. By bringing these resources to the communities that need them most, this initiative has helped to bridge gaps in access and promote equity, while also fostering a greater sense of community and social cohesion.

World Vision has partnered with Romania’s Direcţia Generală de Asistenţă Socială a Municipiului Bucureşti, Ștefan cel Mare University and Brasov General Directorate of Social Assistance and Child Protection. Two additional PCC were set up and soon will be operational in Valcea.

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The PCCs are easily set-up and can be conveniently moved around where they are needed. This one is located near Bucharest's RomExpo that serves as the humanirarian hub responding to the needs of Ukrainian refugees.

 

Story by Leoniza Morales, Communications Specialist I Photos by World Vision Staff