The project began with a focus on the admis- sions area and, with the generous support of business and many individual donors, expand- ed to encompass 2,000 square meters over three floors and 65 rooms and even included an outdoor playground. Bulgaria’s major news networks rallied behind the project, and so did the country’s top tennis player, Grigor Dimitrov! Today the transformed clinics provide a wel- coming, soothing environment for all — from little patients and their parents to doctors and medical staff. The Idea Pirogov is the largest hospital for emergen- cy care in Bulgaria and has been a leading medical institution for decades. Hundreds of thousands of children rely on its care and spend time in the specialized pediatric wards. The clinics’ transformation was inspired by the success of Children’s Science Center Muzeiko, another initiative of the America for Bulgaria Foundation. To engage a child’s imagination like Muzeiko does, Little Heroes uses colorful, content-rich wall art and children’s stories.
The refurbished wards also feature special children’s furniture, toys, books, interactive digital games, and child-appropriate acces- sories. A Continuing Journey ABF’s role in healthcare didn’t end with the 2017 ribbon-cutting ceremony for Little He- roes. In early 2020 along came COVID-19, and within weeks the world was paralyzed by a fast-spreading novel virus. Over the three pandemic years, the Founda- tion successfully partnered with hospitals, local and national civil society organizations, community centers, and businesses to address pressing needs. The more than one million levs ABF helped raise through the United Against COVID-19 campaign funded the purchase of medical equipment, protective gear, and basic medical and food supplies for hospitals and vulnera- ble communities. The aid reached more than 700,000 people across Bulgaria.
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