Summer trips to Baba Stana, 2026
Between June and July this year, trips to Baba Stana in Oreshak were organised for 75 children and young people from six residential care centres. Some of the participants have special needs. During their stay, the children and young adults had the opportunity to take part in a range of recreational, educational and outdoor activities, spend time together, enjoy nature and experience a different environment away from their usual daily routines, including:
- Nature walks through the forests and along the rivers
- Organised recreational and educational games in the countryside and village
- A visit to Troyan Monastery
- Visits and walks around Oreshak
- Arts and crafts
- Theatre and drama
- Sports
- Cooking
The children and young people also took part in a traditional folklore event with members of the local community.
These trips give the children invaluable time away from residential care, allowing them to experience a new environment, explore the world around them and relax in nature. They also help participants strengthen their communication and social skills, build friendships and become more independent. Spending time together in a relaxed, supportive setting encourages confidence and cooperation while giving them the freedom to simply enjoy being children and young people.
Trips to Baba Stana are consistently among the children’s most popular activities. They also play an important role in participants’ social, emotional and personal development, creating positive experiences and lasting memories long after the trip has ended.
Thank you, Friends of Bulgaria, for making this possible!
“Baba Stana is my favorite place, and I always want to come back here again.”
V, 14
“The nature here is so beautiful, and it makes me feel calm and happy. Thank you so much for this wonderful experience.”
E, 16
“It is very important for young people with special needs to have opportunities for experiences like this in a different environment. It helps them discover the world around them, become more independent and develop new skills.”
Director, residential centre for young people with special needs
“It is always wonderful at Baba Stana, and the children always look forward to the summer and all the excitement this trip brings. Having the opportunity to spend time in a different place, enjoy a change from their everyday routine, and feel like other children who grow up in families is very important for their overall development and confidence.”
Social worker