Our mission
The Charity Centre for Refugees (CCR) is a non-governmental, non-profit, non-religious and non-political organization, founded in November 1999. CCR’s main partners are the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR Moldova) and the General Inspectorate for Migration under the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Moldova.
CCR’s mission is to support the initial integration of asylum seekers, as well as the integration of refugees and persons under humanitarian protection into Moldovan society. This is achieved through community-based activities, support for employment, and awareness-raising aimed at increasing their autonomy.
At the same time, CCR provides assistance to vulnerable citizens of the Republic of Moldova from the host community, contributing to the building and strengthening of a peaceful, resilient, and development-friendly environment for coexistence and prosperity.
Our activities
Employment Counselling
Employment counselling is an important part of the initial and social integration of all individuals under international protection in the Republic of Moldova, regardless of their status – whether asylum seekers, refugees, or beneficiaries of temporary or humanitarian protection. This support is also provided to temporarily displaced persons from Ukraine.
Employment support includes the following components:
- Developing an individual employment profile;
- Providing information on relevant provisions of the Labour Code of the Republic of Moldova;
- Assistance in job searching;
- Support in writing a CV;
- Counselling on employment relations and resolving potential disputes;
- Post-employment monitoring of beneficiaries;
- Informing employers about the employment of asylum seekers, refugees, persons with humanitarian protection, and temporarily displaced individuals from Ukraine;
- Providing informational support on starting and running a business in the Republic of Moldova.
In 2023, the Charity Centre for Refugees provided employment counselling to 429 individuals from 33 countries. As a result of 785 job offers, 145 people were officially employed in the Republic of Moldova.
In 2024, the Centre offered employment counselling to 624 individuals from 31 countries, and 174 of them were officially employed, benefiting from a total of 785 job offers.
Educational assistance
- • Periodic provision of school and preschool supplies;
- • Organization of informational sessions on topics such as education, sexual and gender-based violence, discrimination, digital safety, entrepreneurship, and more;
- • Assistance with covering university tuition fees for students (when possible);
- • Financial support for refugee children passionate about football, enabling them to attend a football club in Moldova.
Awareness Raising
- • Participation in local events and initiatives;
- • Establishing ongoing dialogue with the media;
- • Collaboration with local universities (organizing meetings, webinars for students, and internships at CCR);
- • Promoting blood donation among beneficiaries and encouraging their active involvement in such initiatives.
Social assistance
- • Providing material support to newly arrived asylum seekers, elderly persons, large families, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups;
- • Supplying hygiene items for newly arrived asylum seekers;
- • Informing, counseling, and assisting with the enrollment of children in schools and kindergartens;
- • Providing information and assistance with registration at a family doctor;
- • Monitoring social houses/refugee centres across the countries;
- • Visiting refugees and asylum seekers in their communities.
Cultural Orientation
- • Engaging beneficiaries in cultural and recreational activities such as visits to historical and natural sites, sports, handicraft workshops, and culinary exchanges featuring traditional recipes from their countries of origin;
- • Participation in national and international celebrations;
- • Organization of summer camps.
Romanian Language Courses
The Charity Centre for Refugees (CCR), in partnership with UNHCR and Ion Creangă State Pedagogical University, organizes Romanian language courses for adults – refugees, asylum seekers, and beneficiaries of temporary protection – to support their integration into Moldovan society.
Courses are offered both online and in person, to accommodate various needs.
Formats offered at Ion Creangă University:
• Online – for those working or living outside Chișinău;
• In-person – on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 16:00 to 17:30.
Courses at the CCR Centre:
• Days: Tuesday and Thursday
• Group I: 10:00–11:30
• Group II: 14:30–16:00
Under the Protection Hub, CCR offers Romanian language courses specifically for asylum seekers residing in the Temporary Accommodation Centre of the General Inspectorate for Migration.
Romanian Language Courses for Children
Since April 2024, CCR – with the support of UNHCR and in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Research and the Chișinău Municipality (Department of Education, Youth and Sports) – has been implementing a pilot project for refugee children enrolled in Russian-language schools, as well as local children seeking to improve their Romanian skills.
Currently, the project is implemented in 7 schools across Moldova, including 5 in Chișinău:
• “Anton Chekhov” Theoretical Lyceum
• “Nicolai Gogol” Theoretical Lyceum
• “Mihail Lomonosov” Theoretical Lyceum
• “Taras Shevchenko” Gymnasium
• “Gloria” Sports Theoretical Lyceum
- “Dmitri Mavrodi” Theoretical Lyceum, Comrat
- “Alexander Pushkin” Theoretical Lyceum, Anenii Noi
Professional courses
As part of the UNHCR programme, the Charity Centre for Refugees (CCR), in collaboration with accredited vocational schools in the Republic of Moldova, offers refugees, asylum seekers, and beneficiaries of temporary protection the opportunity to attend professional training courses.
These courses encourage active participation in the Moldovan labour market, increase beneficiaries’ self-confidence, help them secure a stable income, and reduce dependency on humanitarian aid.
The available courses include:
• manicure,
• hairdressing,
• makeup artistry,
• pastry making,
• cooking,
• accounting (1C software).
These are more than just training sessions – they are a valuable opportunity for refugees to expand their skills, enhance their employability, and take meaningful steps toward a more stable life in Moldova.
Fundraising and Capacity Development: A Pillar for Organisational Growth
The fundraising and capacity development specialist plays a vital role in strengthening the sustainability and impact of the organisation. Fundraising brings added value by attracting new financial resources and projects, supporting the growth of both the organisation and its team.
By identifying grant opportunities, building constructive partnerships with donors and organisations, and strategically planning fundraising campaigns, the specialist supports staff professional development through trainings, while also providing assistance to refugees, asylum seekers, and others under international protection.
This role also helps expand both financial and humanitarian resources, ensuring support not only for direct beneficiaries but also for vulnerable members of the host community in Moldova affected by the regional crisis. Through coordinated efforts, the fundraising specialist works closely with local and national authorities to identify innovative solutions to pressing social challenges. Effective networking and sustained dialogue ensure that every initiative contributes to a safer and more stable future for all those we support.
Protection Hub Space
The Protection Hub is a support space that brings together key protection and information services for asylum seekers, created and coordinated by the Charity Centre for Refugees (CCR) at the Temporary Accommodation Centre for Asylum Seekers of the General Inspectorate for Migration, with the support of UNHCR.
Services provided by CCR at the Protection Hub include:
- Employment counselling
• Guidance on accessing public services
• Child- and family-friendly spaces
• Mental health and psychosocial support
• Support for obtaining documentation, temporary protection or asylum status
• Assistance in applying for cash-based assistance
• Material support and food distribution
• Art therapy for children and vulnerable groups
Creative and therapeutic activities include:
• Making decorative handmade accessories
• Learning various painting and drawing techniques
• Participating in workshops that encourage self-expression, develop creativity, and improve self-esteem.
The Hub also regularly organises integration activities, including field trips to natural and historical sites.
Community Support Initiatives (CSI) – Building the Future Together!
These projects aim to encourage civic engagement and cooperation between local authorities and civil society. They play a vital role in addressing local challenges and improving the quality of life for both refugees and host community members.
What are Community Support Initiatives?
They are community-driven programmes and actions designed to meet specific needs and have a strong social focus. Initiatives may promote culture and education, create opportunities for social activities, and provide support to vulnerable groups, including refugees and local residents.
Priority Areas:
• Modernising schools and equipping them with up-to-date resources to help displaced children adapt more easily;
• Art therapy and education programmes tailored to the labour market for youth and adults;
• Creating opportunities for children and adults to engage in personal development, painting, music, dance, civic activities, and sports;
• Organising seminars, workshops, experience-sharing events, and creative sessions (e.g., hand-made activities).
Support for Vulnerable Groups:
- Social programmes for displaced persons and high-risk groups;
- Developing mechanisms for long-term social assistance.
Funding:
CSI projects are funded by UNHCR Moldova and implemented by CCR since 2022:
• In 2022 – 16 projects implemented;
• In 2023 – 32 projects implemented;
• In 2024 – 23 projects implemented, plus 15 additional ones under the project supported by “HELP – Hilfe zur Selbsthilfe”.
Art Therapy and the Women’s Committee
Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses creative processes to address emotional difficulties, promote self-awareness, and improve psychological well-being. Its main goal is to harmonize one’s inner state through self-expression and reflection.
At the CCR office, regular art workshops and creative sessions are held for refugees from various countries. Multiple techniques and approaches are used, including:
- Creating handmade decorative accessories;
- Learning painting and drawing techniques;
- Participation in art workshops by both adults and children, which foster self-expression, creativity, and self-confidence.
The Centre also hosts women’s gatherings, thematic meetings, and group workshops. These events help participants express their feelings through art and find new ways to understand their emotions and experiences.
Participants create drawings, plaster sculptures, collages, embroidery, knitted works, and more. These artworks are exhibited annually at a Charity Fair and receive great appreciation. Sessions also include group discussions and experience-sharing.
The Women’s Committee
Refugee women from Ukraine, Russia, Syria, Gaza Strip, Moldova, and other countries have established a Women’s Committee at CCR — a platform focused on addressing the often-overlooked challenges faced by refugee women in the Republic of Moldova.
The committee’s primary goal is to support refugee women and help them adapt successfully to their new environment. It fosters integration, intercultural dialogue, partnership, and protection of women’s rights, especially in times of crisis.
A second key goal is to create a dialogue forum with local institutions and authorities, ensuring that the specific needs of refugee women are included in public policies and programmes.
The committee gives women a voice and a space to express their needs and advocate for themselves.
Its core mission is to strengthen the voice of women and ensure it is heard.
Legal Information and Support
The Charity Centre for Refugees (CCR) provides legal information and assistance to asylum seekers, refugees, beneficiaries of temporary or humanitarian protection, and stateless persons residing in the Republic of Moldova.
We offer counseling on fundamental rights and obligations, the procedures for obtaining legal status or citizenship, and support for integration into local communities.
Our work is based on the belief that everyone under international protection should have access to free and quality legal assistance at every stage of their stay in Moldova.
We understand the unique challenges faced by refugees and therefore offer guidance on a wide range of legal matters, including:
- The procedure for obtaining refugee or temporary protection status;
- Submitting an asylum application;
- Rights and obligations under international protection.
Our Services Include:
- Legal information and one-on-one consultations;
- Assistance with the process of obtaining refugee, temporary or humanitarian protection status;
- Information on the rights and responsibilities of those under international protection;
- Guidance and support for acquiring Moldovan citizenship;
- Referral and support for refugees from Ukraine and third countries to the appropriate institutions.
How We Can Help You:
- We explain the asylum application process in Moldova;
- We provide advice on accessing temporary or humanitarian protection;
- We give detailed information on your rights and responsibilities as a person under international protection or as a stateless individual;
- We refer you to competent authorities and partner organisations for further assistance.
“Donate Blood – Save Lives!”
In the context of World Refugee Day, the Charity Centre for Refugees, with the support of UNHCR Moldova and in partnership with the National Blood Transfusion Centre, has for several years organised a voluntary blood donation campaign under the slogan “Donate Blood – Save Lives!”. Donated blood saves thousands of lives every day.
It is needed for both planned and emergency surgeries, complicated childbirth, cancer treatment, and more. What many do not know is that donation can also benefit the donor — plasma donation (plasmapheresis) supports overall health and strengthens the circulatory and nervous systems.
Each year, many refugees in Moldova choose to donate blood as an act of solidarity, gratitude, and positive contribution to the host society.
In 2024, over 157 refugees from Ukraine, Syria, Morocco, Afghanistan, and the Gaza Strip took part in this action, showing appreciation for the warm welcome offered by the people of Moldova.
Thanks to support from social cohesion programmes, the campaign has grown in impact — benefiting both refugee and local communities.
Basic eligibility criteria:
- Age: 18 to 55 years
- No infectious, viral, or oncological diseases
- Minimum weight: 50 kg for men (individual assessment for women)
- Body temperature: below 37°C
- Blood pressure: 90–160 / 60–100 mmHg
- Haemoglobin: at least 130 g/L (men), 120 g/L (women)
Disqualifying conditions:
- Alcohol consumption less than 48 hours before donation
- Chronic alcoholism
- Use of drugs, psychotropic or nootropic substances, tranquillisers
- Use of certain medications (e.g., analgesics)
For women:
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding period
• During menstruation, including the days before and after.
Refugee Speak – Learn Romanian with Confidence!
The app was developed by CCR with the support of UNHCR, under the project “Community Services for Refugees and Asylum Seekers in Moldova”.
Available worldwide! Refugee Speak helps you learn Romanian from four base languages: Russian, Ukrainian, English, and Arabic. Join a growing community of learners — for free and offline. Study at home, during breaks, or while on the go. It’s easy, fast, and effective!
Developed by professionals:
Boost your vocabulary by selecting content tailored to your level and interests. Discover the most effective way to learn Romanian.
Refugee Speak is a free and user-friendly mobile app designed to support refugees and Russian-speaking residents of Moldova in learning essential Romanian expressions. It is adapted to the needs of people adjusting to a new cultural environment and helps overcome everyday language barriers.
Key features:
- Multilingual interface: available in English, Ukrainian, Russian, and Arabic
- Offline access: learn and practice anytime, anywhere — no internet needed
- Practical focus: key phrases for daily communication
- Language as a tool: supports confident integration into Moldovan society
- Simple design: intuitive and accessible for all age groups
Start your journey to better communication today. Download Refugee Speak and make life in Moldova easier — phrase by phrase, even without internet access!
Naturalisation
The Charity Centre for Refugees (CCR) provides legal guidance and support for obtaining Moldovan citizenship, including preparation for the Romanian language and Constitution exams.
What you need to know:
To apply for citizenship, candidates must:
• Pass a Romanian language proficiency test;
• Demonstrate knowledge and respect for the Constitution of the Republic of Moldova.
Applications must be submitted at least 2 working days before the exam to the Ministry of Education and Research (PMAN 1, Government House entrance from Manolescu-Bodoni Street).
A copy of the applicant’s ID must be attached.
More info: https://ance.gov.md/
Naturalisation is the final step in the integration process
It provides not only rights, but also responsibilities as a citizen.
Eligibility conditions:
- Legal and permanent residence in Moldova:
- 8 years — for stateless persons, refugees, and holders of humanitarian protection
- 3 years — for spouses of Moldovan citizens
- 5 years — for minors who reach age 18 during the stay
Legal residence must be continuous and uninterrupted.
To confirm your legal stay period, submit a request to the General Inspectorate for Migration.
Exemptions from the exam:
- Retirees
- Persons with officially recognised temporary disabilities
Application processing times:
- Citizenship by recognition — up to 6 months
- Citizenship by naturalisation — up to 12 months
The deadline begins from the date of full application submission.
Full documentation requirements available at:
https://www.asp.gov.md/ro/servicii/persoane-fizice