In May 2025, the counties of Covasna and Harghita in central and northern Romania were hit by severe floods, triggered by days of torrential rain that far exceeded the monthly average. Over 300 households were affected in Covasna alone, with hundreds of people evacuated. Houses suffered extensive damage, lost essential belongings, and access to clean water.
TThe situation has been further complicated by the fact that most people had no insurance coverage, which deepened their economic hardship and significantly slowed down recovery efforts.

Due to the contamination of potable water sources, the risk of infection and disease outbreaks increased significantly. Vulnerable populations — particularly elderly people with limited resources — were left without access to basic necessities. In this context, humanitarian support was critical to prevent a public health crisis.

In response, the Order of Malta Relief Organisation in Romania – Serviciul de Ajutor Maltez în România (OMRO) mobilised swiftly. An online volunteer platform attracted over 200 helpers. In just a few days, they collected 5 tons of food and 1 ton of hygiene supplies. Emergency aid was targeted to the hardest-hit villages of Băcel and Boroșneu Mare.

Volunteers cooked over 1,200 hot meals via mobile kitchens, delivered food packages to families, and offered assistance for cleaning, removing debris, and restoring homes. Special care was given to vulnerable individuals, including the elderly.

Support also came from the Order of Malta Hungary, who deployed another mobile kitchen, cooked 700 additional meals, and donated a further 5 tons of food.

All operations were carried out in coordination with the Romanian Emergency Situations Inspectorate (ISU). Thanks to the Order’s intervention, a broad network of solidarity emerged, offering not only aid but also hope and resilience to affected communities.

Photo-credit: Order of Malta Romania