Transforming lives through employment and Gospel-centered outreach in Southern Romania

Maria Naomi is a faith-driven nonprofit empowering communities in Southern Romania. By creating sustainable work opportunities for women and sharing the love of Christ, we’re breaking cycles of poverty, strengthening families, and building a foundation of hope for generations to come.

$41,000

contributed to local economies through Maria Naomi’s artisan-crafted product sales

1,850

families reached with door-to-door evangelism and practical support

5

churches planted in local villages throughout Southern Romania

Our vision is thriving villages in Southern Romania where every individual has access to dignified work, supportive communities, and the transformative power of the Gospel. By equipping individuals and families with practical skills and biblical discipleship, we aim to transform hearts, break cycles of poverty, and create sustainable change for generations.

Meeting practical and spiritual needs

Providing women with marketable skills

Maria Naomi trains local women in craftsmanship and professional skills.Through our program, they are equipped to engage in meaningful work and build sustainable futures for themselves and their families.

Strengthening communities through craftsmanship

By creating opportunities in rural areas, Maria Naomi revitalizes local economies while celebrating the beauty and heritage of handmade goods. Through skilled craftsmanship, communities are strengthened and cultural heritage is preserved.

Transforming lives with faith and purpose

Driven by the Gospel, we desire to see lives transformed for eternity through faith in Jesus Christ. With a heart of love and service, Maria Naomi offers more than jobs; it creates a pathway to dignity, stability, purpose, and eternal hope beyond this life.

Our key results

1,500+ unique artisan-made goods

Maria Naomi artisans have created and sold tens of thousands of items including handmade clothing, textiles, jewelry, and household goods, fueling local economies.

700+ home Bible studies

Maria Naomi artisans have created and sold tens of thousands of items including handmade clothing, textiles, jewelry, and household goods, fueling local economies.

Maria Naomi demonstrates God’s love to hundreds of children every year through summer camps and events in their villages.

75+ children’s events and camps

"Our journey began with a simple prayer: 'Lord, I don’t want to turn away from the needs around us.' From that moment, we’ve witnessed God’s faithfulness, transforming what felt as small as five loaves and two fishes into provision that has reached thousands."

– Florina Darvell, Founder

Discover our frequently asked questions

  • Life in rural Romania involves many challenges for women including poverty, spiritual darkness, broken families due to alcoholism, and limited access to stable employment and economic opportunities. Many women are forced to leave their families to seek work in other countries in Europe, which can result in family instability, children struggling in school, and financial and emotional strain.

    Maria Naomi addresses these challenges by providing dignified local employment through its artisan workshop, where women gain practical skills, steady income, and opportunities to thrive practically and spiritually. Local employment allows them to remain close to their families while contributing to their communities. In addition to employment, Maria Naomi fosters a supportive environment where women are encouraged to grow personally and professionally. By creating opportunities and offering mentorship, the initiative helps break cycles of poverty and empowers women to shape a brighter future for themselves, their families, and their communities.

  • Yes, you can make a tax-deductible donation to support Maria Naomi through our American-based nonprofit partner, Good Bureau. Good Bureau is a registered 501(c)(3) organization that provides American donors with access to tax-deductible giving for Romanian nonprofits who are focused on social impact and development. All funds raised through Good Bureau’s page for Maria Naomi are exclusively allocated to support Maria Naomi’s activities and programs. This ensures your contribution directly benefits women and families in rural Romania while also offering a tax benefit. For more information, email us at giving@marianaomi.org.

  • You can purchase handmade clothing through Maria Naomi’s storefront, Melissa’s. This clothing label, owned and operated by Maria Naomi, employs additional Romanians in their distribution efforts, ensuring that the artisans’ clothing and products reach a wider, global audience. Every purchase directly supports the artisans and sustains the mission’s efforts, creating lasting change in their families and communities. Learn more about Melissa’s.

Support our mission and transform lives

through the power of the Gospel

Your gift equips women with dignified jobs, reaches families with hope, and strengthens communities through the power of the Gospel. Join with us and rejoice as we see the Lord change lives, strengthen families, and uplift entire communities. Start making a difference with us today.

Reach underserved communities in rural Romania.

Your tax-deductible gift is powered by Good Bureau. 100% of your donation supports Maria Naomi's programs.