The European Union has donated personal protective equipment for persons with intellectual and psychosocial disabilities and employees of six residential institutions. 1,700 persons with disabilities and employees of the residential institutions based in Bălți, Cocieri, Orhei, Hîncești, Brînzeni and Bădiceni will be supplied with masks, gloves, protective glasses, visors, disinfectant and protective clothing. The total cost of the project is €60,000, IPN reports.

EU Ambassadors to Moldova Peter Michalko said that during the crisis the EU and its Member States – Team Europe – act together to offer support to the citizens of the Republic of Moldova, mobilizing resources and ensuring the delivery of protective equipment, stimulating research and supporting the partner states. “The attention devoted to the social inclusion and safety of persons with disabilities is essential. The assistance offered through this project by the European Union is intended for persons who need this support the most, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Peter Michalko stated in the handover event.

Keystone Moldova executive director Ludmila Malcoci said the six residential institutions are in the process of reformation and the persons with intellectual and psychosocial disabilities are expecting a better life in the community. “Regrettably, the COVID-19 pandemic led to the institution of quarantine and slowed down the institutionalization process. As the pandemic situation in Moldova has worsened, this emergency assistance will contribute to ensuring the rights to health, information and reporting of abuses and violations of the persons with disabilities,” stated Ludmila Malcoci.

The institutions will stage activities to inform about the protective measures. For the purpose, video monitors will be installed and information will be broadcast in plain language. An internal infection prevention and control policy will be developed for each institution.