September in Surdulica is used to harvest plums after community members returned from their seasonal jobs, so we had short visits and little socializing this month.

One problem in this large Roma settlement is damaged interpersonal relations. I am encouraged that through Transformational Community Development (TCD), people are starting to open up in conversations and realize how important the community they live in is for everyone. We want to see progress, healed relationships, and a healthy and whole community.

Salija asked us to come to visit her. Both she and her mother have joined our group. She explained how she hurt her leg and is home alone with her mother, who can’t move. She called several people from her neighborhood, but they didn’t want to come to her or help her with food. A girl finally came after many calls and helped her. After that, Salija wanted to be an example to all her neighbors. They are glad that they can learn through TCD.

Thank you!

Written by Snezana, GHNI Partner