Hundreds of children who live near the sea have never seen it. The project fulfilling their dream
Translated from Romanian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- An association in Romania is fulfilling the dream of seeing the sea for children from low-income families who live near the coast but cannot afford a trip.
- The project,
For many, a day at the beach is ordinary. But for hundreds of children in Romania's Constanศa and Tulcea counties, seeing the sea remains an unattainable dream.
The "First Time at the Sea" project, run by the "Together for the Future" association, aims to change that. Since 2018, the organization has brought this joy to over 1,500 children from vulnerable families, particularly in rural areas. This year, another 120 children will experience the sea for the first time.
While for many of us a day at the sea is something natural, there are still hundreds of children who have never had the chance to see the sea with their own eyes.
"We want no child to grow up without having seen the sea at least once," said Anda Maria Diศea, vice president of the association. "For some of us, it's a weekend destination. For them, it's a dream. The first encounter with the sea is not just a trip, but a memory that will stay with them for life. We believe every child deserves such moments, regardless of their family's financial situation."
We want no child to grow up without having seen the sea at least once. For some of us, it's a weekend destination. For them, it's a dream. The first encounter with the sea is not just a trip, but a memory that will stay with them for life. We believe every child deserves such moments, regardless of their family's financial situation.
The day trip includes a cable car ride, a dolphin show at the Constanศa Dolphinarium, a double-decker bus tour, a treat at a cafe, and fun at a swimming pool, culminating in the long-awaited meeting with the Black Sea.
Diศea noted that initially, raising funds was challenging. However, as the association's work became known, donations increased. This year, a large seaside resort is partnering with them, simplifying logistics. The children often come from villages where they have never even left their hometowns, making the experience even more impactful. The association collaborates with over 35-40 schools in Constanศa and Tulcea counties to identify and reach these children.
Some children have not even left their village.
Originally published by Adevฤrul in Romanian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.