Hygiene Kits for Roma

Slovakia has among the highest concentration of Roma settlements(gypies) in the world.

It is believed the health and conditions among the Roma are poorer than the majority population of Slovakia. LDS Charities is finding ways to work with non-governmental organizations (NGO) that help the Roma ghettos. 

We visit several Roma villages where poverty is rampant and unemployment is dismal.

How to manage a project that requires service and self-reliance is a challenge. We met with the mayor of one such Roma village and with an organization that works with six of these villages. The majority of Roma residents are children under 16-years old. 

Amid growing concerns is how to educate and improve the lifestyle of Roma. The high risk of spreading infectious diseases, and facing the many health problems due to extremely high prevalence of smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, high consumption of animal fats, and low consumption of fruits and vegetables. 

Their poor health status consists of long-term bad economic situation, low education, and incorrect lifestyle.

Social workers of these NGOs teach "prevention activities" to the children at the local community center.

Hygiene classes involve using toilets, washing hands with soap, and other cleanliness habits to avoid spreading diseases. They also teach basic health practices like eating healthy fruits and vegetables and avoiding tobacco and alcohol.

The small community center has two small toilets and sink.

They also have a classroom where they teach basics as well as learning activities. Many children live in shanties or ghettos without running water, toilets, or working plumbing. Many parents are unaware of hygiene practices themselves. We were told children and adults go to the bathroom outside in the bushes and never wash hands. Frequent sickness and illness occurs due to filth and uncleanliness. 

During the winter, the center can reach more children as they escape the freezing temperatures in their homes. This is the time where more children are helped with schoolwork and health and sanitation classes.

We have been asked to provide hygiene supplies to those willing to change their daily habits. We will be purchasing, collecting, and assembling hygiene kits containing soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and a few other items. Kids who regularly attend classes and strive to improve their health will receive a personal hygiene kit. The young single adults will be involved in putting together the kits during an upcoming conference.