The Vrba Foundation, which assists widowed families, has received a donation of 200,000 CZK from the city of Prague. The donation is specifically designated for the “Meetings under the Vrba tree” program, providing extended weekend getaways for widowed parents and their children.

“Every year, 36,000 mothers or fathers are widowed in our republic, and they often remain alone with their children in these difficult times,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Social Care Alexandra Udženija (ODS) in a press release. She further emphasized the challenges faced by widowed families, including grief, stress, anxiety, isolation, loneliness, and financial difficulties. The Vrba Foundation addresses these issues and offers essential support to these families.

The “Meetings under the Vrba tree” weekends offer a range of activities, including themed workshops, self-help groups, and therapeutic support. These workshops focus on crucial topics that widowed families commonly encounter, such as financial literacy, parenting skills, and legal awareness. Additionally, the program provides group or individual therapies, artistic and physical workshops, self-help groups, and animation programs for children.

The Vrba Foundation’s website outlines the goals of the “Meetings under the Vrba tree” project, which aims to create an environment for relaxation, active leisure, and skill development. The foundation’s comprehensive approach involves expert-led seminars and workshops tailored to widowed families’ needs.

Established in 2016, the Vrba Foundation has already assisted over four hundred incomplete families in the Czech Republic. The foundation’s mission is to provide holistic support to widowed families through financial and legal guidance, psychotherapeutic services, and household assistance.

By contributing to the Vrba Foundation, the city of Prague is addressing an important societal need and recognizing the challenges faced by widowed families. This donation will enable the foundation to continue its impactful work in improving the well-being and resilience of widowed parents and their children, fostering a supportive environment for their long-term recovery and growth.

Article by Prague Forum