The Romanian Orthodox Diocese of Italy has renovated the “Saint Anastasia” Guest House in Rome to accommodate families of Romanian children who come to the Italian capital for treatment of illnesses that cannot be treated in their home country.
The restructuring work focused on vital elements for the building’s safety and functionality: new windows were installed, and the heating, electrical, and sanitary systems were rehabilitated.
“By creating a secure environment, the project directly contributes to reducing family stress, offering parents better emotional support, which is essential for the overall well-being of both them and their children,” representatives of the diocese said.
The “Saint Anastasia” Guest House will not be simply a place to stay, but a vital centre hosting families with children undergoing treatment in Rome medical units such as the Bambino Gesù Hospital, where around 2,000 Romanian children are treated each year.
Romanian identity far from home
The impact of the Saint Anastasia Guest House goes beyond logistics. Activities carried out in this location will seek to preserve Romanian national consciousness among those who have emigrated to Italy and to transmit it to children who spend long periods in the country due to medical problems.
The project strengthens community cohesion and solidarity as well as Romanian identity. For this reason, the main support for the renovation works came from the Department for Romanians Abroad.
Sustainability and partners
The Red Cross – San Marino also donated towards the works, and Banca Transilvania is a financial supporter.
As such, the project’s success is the result of extensive collaboration, including hospitals in Rome (especially Bambino Gesù). These will refer children receiving treatment to the Saint Anastasia House for convalescence or outpatient care.
On December 6, the project will be promoted through a charity concert in Rome performed by artists from the “George Enescu” Philharmonic.
Sustainability will be ensured through the ongoing support of parishes and faithful in the Diocese of Italy, and Mother Anastasia, the project coordinator, confirmed that the initiative is fundamental for expanding the diocese’s social-philanthropic work.
Photo: Diocese of Italy
