GOALS for #everygirl EBRD Community Initiative

Dear Supporters and friends of GOALS,

The pain and sorrow that we face as a nation and as a people are inexplicable. For the past 44 days, we have endured unimaginable crimes against our nation. We are mourning the loss of thousands of heroes who fell during brave battles and the loss of our historical lands. We are left with an empty feeling of despair but in these difficult times, we must remember that this is not the end. We will continue to fight for what is right and for our nation. We will continue to stand strong and united.

The past month’s events disturbed our way of life and changed priorities. Now we have a country to rebuild and families to support. Over 30,000 children have been displaced by war, and they need our love and support in these difficult times. We have an obligation to protect their childhood, their right to family life, education, and leisure.

War and military conflict negatively impact on the mental wellbeing of both adults and children. We have evidenced this during the past month while working with children from Artsakh and Armenia. From day one of the war GOALS started organizing activities and games for children that had been displaced because of the war, trying to give them a sense of normalcy. GOALS is committed to the inclusion and expansion of all activities for children displaced by the war. We will continue to increase our efforts and services and evolve to accommodate current needs.

As Armenians and allies around the world, I call on you, supporters of GOALS and beyond, to help us make a change in the lives of these children. Now they need us more than ever. Without your donations, we will be unable to continue carrying out these activities, let alone scaling up our efforts. We will not be able to provide organized leisure activities, outdoor exercise, and a safe haven from all the pain and uncertainty for our children.

Remember that all donations will be matched by the EBRD Community Initiative to a maximum of EUR 50,000. The EBRD Community Initiative is a program dedicated to support staff who are engaged with local organizations helping communities in the EBRD countries of operations.

United, we are stronger.