Big problems in a small town

Narva is the third largest town in Estonia with population of about 65 000 people. It is one of the biggest industrial towns of Estonia where are located factories and power stations. In spite of this there are many poverty-stricken families and families with one parent and several children. Many people work outside their profession for the minimum payment. The number of unemployed people is large because of the reduction of workplaces in the enterprises of Narva town. Because of social situation Narva is totally different from other parts of Estonia, more than 10% of Narva’s inhabitants find themselves in poverty. There are 8 communal houses in the town, where lower-income, unemployed, former prisoners live. The main problem seems to be passive way of life among young people, particularly those who come from poverty-stricken or unemployed families.

Narva 1993

There are lots of young people in Narva who get into troubles as a result of rough changes happening during last years. According to mass media data there are around 5 000 prisoners in Estonia, 50% of whom come from Ida-Virumaa region where Narva is located. Illegal trade of tobacco products, alcohol and drugs is distributed. Teenagers often bring drugs to parties and clubs, where they sale to friends. Parents hope if they forbid children to spend theirs evening time in the streets, they can manage to reduce the risk of alcohol and drugs consumption. Actually drugs are distributed enough outside the parties. Legal alcohol and tobacco are available for most under 18 years of age.

Next pictures depict a place near Narva where the traces of drug users are left.

In Narva a big number of socially unprotected and unemployed people. There are a lot of problem situations, problems with children and youth, in consequence there happened an idea to create a charity organization.

Creation of charity organization together with its affiliated enterprises – the children’s rooms that are inside of the communal houses, had followed the only one aim – to turn away teenagers and youth of 6-20 years of ages from the negative influence of street life and give them hope of creating better future.

OUR TARGET GROUP IS CHILDREN FROM RISK GROUP WHO LIVE IN NEIGHBOURHOOD TO OUR CENTER.