The presence of the Salvatorian Sisters in Albania dates back to 1994. At that time, the people were in a situation of need and poverty, and the sisters wanted to help and alleviate the suffering.

In 1997, a small group of sisters settled in the north of Albania, in the village of Rragam. Isolated from the city of Tirana, life there was even more difficult. The area was, and to some extent still is, one of the poorest regions in Albania.

We sisters began our work in the old rectory. The most important thing seemed to be to offer the youngest children a healthy environment and a holistic education. So, with the help of many benefactors, the old rectory was demolished and a multi-purpose parish centre was built in 2011 with its own premises for the kindergarten. The beginnings were difficult, but also beautiful, because there was a lot of solidarity with the Albanian population, especially from benefactors from Italy and Germany.

Over the years, we unfortunately experienced the collapse of the benefactors. The funds became less and less over the years and with the remaining sum, the operation of the kindergarten can only be guaranteed for one more year. It is true that the situation in Albania is improving, but it is also true that the face of poverty is not disappearing.

The families of the children make a small, symbolic contribution to the running of the centre. It is more about strengthening their responsibility and commitment to their children. The kindergarten is currently attended by around 55 children from Rragam and the neighbouring villages.

A third of the families are unable to make a contribution. Some families only contribute half. The remaining families pay the full amount of 20 euros for the school year.

School starts at 8.00 am and finishes at 1.00 pm. We have six insured employees, two teachers, a cook and cleaner, a secretary, a centre manager and an economist.

In addition to the educational activities, the children are offered lunch. Other expenses include maintenance, the purchase of play materials, stationery and hygiene.

The total annual costs amount to
around 40.000 euros.