Every year more than 2,000 children in Bulgaria are abandoned by their parents, most of them still in the maternity hospital. This has been a steady trend over the last 10 years. The situation of families at risk is particularly dramatic in the current epidemic and emerging economic crisis, when vulnerable social groups become even more vulnerable. In order to draw public attention to the disturbing facts of recent years, SOS Children's Villages - Bulgaria has launched the "Become a Giant" campaign. One of its goals is to attract people who are willing to donate money to children deprived of parental care or those who are at risk of losing it.

The face of the campaign, which will last until the end of February, is the popular Bulgarian musician Svilen Noev, front man of Ostava pop band. He donated his song “Velikan” ("Giant") to SOS Children's Villages - Bulgaria, the first civil rights organization in this country which provides direct care for children at risk. The musicians from the Ostava band also take part in the recording. Svilen Noev wrote the music and the lyrics as the song arrangement is a collaboration of all band members.

"Sometimes I'm alone, but I know that when I’m with you I become a giant," the lyrics go.

"I believe that each child can become a giant if he or she receives the necessary support,” the songwriter says. “I hope that all my fans and all people who have the opportunity will support children at risk by becoming an SOS Friend."

SOS Children's Villages in Bulgaria are part of the large global family of SOS Children’s Villages International, an organization which cares for nearly 2,500,000 children in 136 countries around the world. Established in Bulgaria soon after the democratic changes here after the fall of socialism, the association provides a family and a healthy environment for the development and growth of children deprived of parental care.

"With your help and support, we believe that every kid will grow into a big and strong giant," the organizers of the campaign believe.

Edited by Albena Bezovska

English version Rositsa Petkova