On December 5, 2019, we officially opened a space where essential healthcare services can be made available to vulnerable mothers and children living in Sofia’s Fakulteta neighborhood. Today, we proudly celebrate the fifth anniversary of the neighborhood’s medical office – part of the community center of our partners from the Health and Social Development Foundation.
Since its inception, the medical office has become more than just a health center – for many people in the neighborhood, it has become a symbol of inclusion and resilience. Over the past five years, the office has welcomed more than a thousand children and parents, offering affordable basic medical services that are vital to the well-being of the community, especially the youngest.
In 2019, the Trust for a Social Achievement equipped the place through funds raised by private donors. And so, it continued to be maintained and operated – through donations for medical supplies and through the goodwill of various doctors who decided to share their time and care for patients free of charge. Such dedicated professionals include Dr. Bozhkova, Dr. Poptodorov, and Dr. Veselinov, who over the years provided gynecological examinations and prenatal care, as well as Dr. Tanya Andreeva and Dr. Krasimira Baynova, who were there for babies and children in need of pediatric care.
All of these professionals, as well as the team behind the center, made sure that everyone who walked through the doors received the care and follow-up support they deserved, regardless of their background. Together, they provided regular pediatric check-ups, easier access to prenatal care, family planning, and contraception. The medical office also became a place for empowering community members to take control over their own health.
“Fakulteta” has a population of around 40,000 people and is, according to some estimates, the neighborhood with the highest number of children in Sofia. Currently, there is only one general practitioner there, who admits patients twice a week. This means that without our medical office and the doctors who see patients there, a large number of mothers and babies would be left without medical care.
As we reflect on the past five years, we continue to look forward with hope and determination. Our commitment to promoting equity in access to healthcare remains stronger than ever.
