“You are ambassadors of God’s Kingdom—delegates and appointees serving on the most challenging frontlines,” declared Albert Durkó, President, at a gathering in Békés for the coordinators and staff of the thirteen CharityPoints operating under the GypsyAid of the Hungarian Gypsy Missions International.
The coordinators serve with a deep sense of calling. When they encounter need, working hours become irrelevant—driven instead by a sincere desire to help. They go to great lengths to secure donations, ensuring they can assist those in hardship.
“We rarely have the opportunity to exchange experiences in person, as CharityPoints operate across many regions,” said István Kis, Head of the Charitable Services Department. “That’s why we aim to make these meetings a regular occurrence. Families in need always look forward to our visits—often, we are their last hope, the final support they can turn to.” Kis added that coordinators need ongoing encouragement, as the strain of their work can easily lead to burnout. The keynote presentation addressed this very concern under the title “Burn Bright, But Don’t Burn Out,” delivered by leaders from the Stone of Help Foundation in Budapest.
“We began our work over twenty years ago in Budapest,” shared Márta Schönek, senior associate of the foundation. “We connected with HGMI two years ago through an invitation from Nyírkáta to assist local Roma families—a call we were glad to answer. Since then, we’ve visited several CharityPoints and speak of their work with admiration.”
The work is unending. In addition to collecting and distributing donations, CharityPoint staff often serve as trusted confidants—people locals turn to with their emotional burdens. Edit Sámi-Nyékiné, the coordinator in Berettyóújfalu, passionately shared what this role means to her.
“In addition to giving donations, we also help with job searches and resolving family issues—within the limits of our capacity. In many cases, families remain together thanks to our support. This work is my calling. I am where the Lord has placed me—where I truly feel at home.”
