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During her meeting with Governor of Sverdlovsk Region Denis Pasler, further steps to support families and prevent social orphanhood were outlined. Maria Lvova-Belova noted that, thanks to the implementation of the special project Vyzov (Challenge) in the region, the number of children in orphanages and shelters has decreased by 21 percent over the past two years. The launch of a regional branch of the Children’s Protection Fund, which will, among other things, provide targeted assistance, was also discussed.

Maria Lvova-Belova also visited a family that has been supported by the Vyzov team for seven months. Their three children were placed in institutional care last year because their mother was struggling with alcohol addiction and was unable to manage day-to-day life. The situation was brought to the attention of an interagency council established in the region, which decided to provide comprehensive support to the family.

The regional drug addiction hospital was brought in to provide treatment for the mother, who received the help she needed to overcome her crisis and was able to reunite with her children. With support from the NGO Your Way, the family purchased essential furniture and household appliances, and social support continues to be provided.

Maria Lvova-Belova also learned about the work of a rehabilitation centre that supports mothers with children without separating them, run with the assistance of the Asbest City Charitable Foundation Vozmozhnost (Opportunity).

The Commissioner held individual consultations on the restoration of parental rights and explored possibilities for assisting with housing and other practical needs.

In addition, Maria Lvova-Belova held a personal meeting with families at the Social Rehabilitation Centre for Minors in Asbest. Following the visit, the Commissioner took 13 cases under her personal review.