IRF supported 24 grants extended to Roma NGOs in the Transcarpathian Region

The International Renaissance Foundation, which is an integral part of the International Soros network, earmarked around USD 100,000 in 2009 to improve living conditions of Roma in Ukraine's western Zakarpattia region.

Thus, IRF supported 24 grants extended to Roma NGOs in the region. The projects were mainly focused on promotion of better access of Roma population in Zakarpattia region (Transcarpathia) to healthcare services, continuation of work of the Health for Roma Medical and Consultation Center, arrangement of a summer sports and health camp for Roma children, support for education of Roma youth in secondary special technical education institutions. Roma are expecting to get the same support from IRF this year as well. According to the 2001 census, there were 47,600 Roma living in Ukraine, including 14,000 in Zakarpattia region.