Our Story

Casa Shalom – Our History

1994–1996: The Beginning
  • A church in Germersheim, Germany bought an unfinished house, which was renovated and enlarged.
  • In 1995, Rebecca Dan Walsh became Director, and the home was named Casa Shalom.
  • The ministry began with street children in Bucharest and officially registered as Asociația Casa Shalom in 1996.
  • The first three boys stayed with us for three months, while outreach continued at the train station for street children.
  • In 1997, the first children moved in permanently — 12 children by year-end.
  • By 1999, 18 children were living at Casa Shalom, forming one big family.
  • A generous donation allowed us to purchase land for a new house, though planning and construction faced delays and redesigns.
  • Music, gardening, and daily family activities were central to the children’s life at Casa Shalom.
  • Built a metal building that became an all-purpose activity center for children.
  • The number of children grew to over 30, including some from state orphanages.
  • Volunteer teams from the U.S. and Europe contributed to building, painting, and improving facilities.
  • Began construction of a new house with support from Romanian and German architects, American project managers, and international volunteers.
  • 10-year reunion in 2006 with over 150 people, including Bucharest officials. Children had grown in confidence and skills.
  • Volunteer teams from Ireland and other countries helped continue building and improvements.
  • JOY After School Program launched to help children from local families with homework, meals, and tutoring.
  • New initiatives supported mothers with many children and children with disabilities, including medical support.
  • Summer camps expanded, and partnerships with international volunteers continued.
  • Casa Shalom expanded its ministry to India and Nepal, partnering with organizations to fight human trafficking.
  • Continued local programs and summer camps with volunteer teams.
  • Hosted 15 refugees from Myanmar (Burma) and provided language and integration support.
  • Participated in a UNHCR dialogue in Geneva on Faith and Refugee Protection.
  • Welcomed approximately 2,000 Ukrainian refugees, some staying for several months.
  • Continued feeding hundreds of children and families monthly through partnerships with the Bucharest Food Bank and other sponsors.
  • Completed church extension, connecting the church to the main house and adding Sunday School rooms and extra space.
  • Total cost: $60,000.
  • Beginning construction of a new room for 60–70 people, which will serve as a small conference room, study area, and meeting space.
  • This expansion will allow Casa Shalom to host workshops, training, and community meetings in a dedicated space.
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