The Role of Employment in Uplifting Underserved Communities

By Florina Darvell

When I began my ministry in Southern Romania over 20 years ago, I quickly realized that many of the challenges people face here stem not just from poverty, but from a lack of opportunities. Among those hardest hit are the Roma people, an ethnic group that makes up the majority of the people Maria Naomi’s programs reach. Over time, I’ve come to see not just their struggles, but also the resilience they carry.

Let me share what I’ve learned—and why this work matters so much.

The Economic Reality

For many Roma families, daily life revolves around survival. Employment opportunities are scarce in rural Romania, and discrimination makes finding steady work even harder. Factories rarely hire Roma workers, and when they do, it’s often for the lowest-paying, least secure positions. Seasonal agricultural work or collecting recyclable materials are often the only ways to earn an income.

Education, too, is a hurdle. Many Roma children drop out of school early because their families can’t afford the associated costs or because they need to contribute to the family’s income. Without an education, their chances of breaking the cycle of poverty are slim.

I’ve met mothers who struggle to feed their children, fathers who feel the weight of not being able to provide, and young people who dream of a different future but see no path forward. It’s heartbreaking, but it’s also why we’re here.

Breaking Cycles Through Dignified Work

When we started Maria Naomi’s Workshop, it wasn’t just about creating jobs—it was about creating dignity. Work that is meaningful, fairly compensated, and supportive can transform not just an individual, but an entire family.

One of the first women who came to the workshop had never had a steady job before. She told me that she had always felt invisible, both because of her ethnicity and her poverty. But when she held her first paycheck in her hands, she cried. For the first time, she felt seen and valued.

The workshop offers more than income. It’s a place where women can learn new skills, gain confidence, and realize their worth. By teaching them how to create entire garments from start to finish, we give them a sense of ownership over their work. They see the fruits of their labor and know they’ve contributed something beautiful and lasting.

The Bigger Picture

It’s important to understand that the Roma people don’t need pity—they need opportunity. They are skilled, resourceful, and resilient. What they lack are systems that allow them to flourish.

Through Maria Naomi, we’re working to build those systems. Whether it’s through our workshop, Bible studies, or children’s programs, we aim to equip people with the tools they need to thrive.

But this work is not easy. Change is slow, and it requires perseverance. Every garment made in our workshop, every Bible study attended, and every family helped is a step toward building a brighter future.

How You Can Help

As someone who has witnessed both the challenges and the triumphs of the Roma people, I invite you to join this mission. You can pray for the families we serve, donate to support our programs, or simply share their story with others.

By partnering with us, you’re not just giving funds—you’re investing in lives. You’re helping a mother provide for her children, a young woman gain confidence, and a community see the hope of Christ.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about this important work. Together, we can continue to make a difference in Southern Romania.