Bethany Social Services: Albania/Kosovo Report ... - Milika Dhamo

Tirana Clinic in Albania
Domestic Violence
In 2002, BSSA partnered with CORD/ZOA to try to improve the
plight of abused women living in Gramsh, Albania. In this city, family
members often forbid abused women from seeking professional
help. However, these battered women are allowed to meet with other
women in their homes.
BSSA has worked with five Christian psychologists from TELOS
(an International organization for counseling and therapy) to train
women to lead women’s support groups. Through the “Communication
Skills” program, these women were taught counseling skills
addressing domestic abuse.
David Harmon providing training
in Gramsh
School Counselor
BSSA has been providing services for children at the Bajram Curri
School since 1999. This semi-urban school is situated in a traditional
settlement of Gypsies and Roma families with a long history of
social abandonment and stigma. BSSA’s services focus on identifying
extended family members capable of caring for children, reducing
the risk of child exploitation and prostitution, increasing school
enrollment, enhancing participation in school organized activities
of students and family members, and strengthening the school and
community’s capacity to educate and care for their children.