Bulgaria

Bulgaria is a country located in Southeast Europe, known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and ski resorts. However, the country faces significant challenges in terms of poverty, education, and health care. According to UNICEF, the country has one of the highest child poverty rates in the European Union.

At A Glance

  • We work with the Bulgarian government and other partners to help address a range of health issues, including family planning, nutrition, and strengthening primary health care and public health systems.
  • We support efforts to help smallholder farmers in Bulgaria increase their yields and reduce food insecurity in the country.
  • We provide food, clean water, shelter, and medical supplies.

Overview

We want all of Bulgaria’s children, mothers, and families to be able to lead healthy and productive lives, and we want the country’s most marginalized people to have opportunities to lift themselves out of poverty. To work toward these goals, we partner with the government, the private sector, and civil society organizations.

Challenge Facing Bulgaria

Around 40% of Bulgarian children live in poverty, which significantly impacts their health, education, and overall well-being. Additionally, Bulgaria has a high percentage of the elderly population, which puts a strain on the healthcare system and social services.

Overview Of The Situation

1 in 3 children live below the poverty line

One of the significant problems Bulgaria faces is the lack of access to quality education, particularly for children living in poverty. According to UNICEF, around 1 in 3 Bulgarian children do not complete secondary education. Many schools lack adequate facilities, equipment, and qualified teachers, making it challenging for children to receive a quality education. This problem is further exacerbated for children living in poverty, who often have to work or take care of siblings instead of attending school.

71
Low Education
1
Below Poverty Line
45
High Risk
6
Population
THE BRIMSOL FOUNDATION

Our Response To The Problem

"We are intentional about positively impacting the generation of tomorrow by providing for and equipping them to thrive in all they do."

The Brimsol Foundation fights Bulgaria’s hunger from the inside out. We offer essential monthly food assistance for thousands of people. Helping households have better access to food, clean drinking water, and sanitation.

3 Things to Know About the Crisis in Bulgaria

Due to the extreme situation, families are significantly impacted. Many of them suffer from malnutrition, clean water problems, and sanitation issues; this challenge will take years to improve throughout the country.

  • Child poverty rates in Bulgaria are among the highest in the European Union.
  • Access to quality education is a significant issue for children, particularly those living in poverty.
  • The healthcare system in Bulgaria is struggling to meet the needs of the aging population.

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More About Our Work In Europe

Regional Office

Our work in Bulgaria is based out of our office in Sofia.

  • Visit the Sofia office page

Fact Sheet: Our Work In Europe

A brief overview of our priorities in Europe.

  • Download English 

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