Impact of Donation: Technology as a Bridge to a Brighter Future at the Children's Shelter (Svratište za decu i mlade Grada Novog Sada)
Six months after donating equipment to a children's shelter – a space for children from vulnerable groups in Novi Sad – we revisited the shelter to see the impact this support has had on their daily lives. We spoke with Nikola, one of the children's shelter administrators, who shared honest insights about the importance of access to digital tools, how the children are using them and what more can be done.
How has the donated equipment helped in everyday activities, and in what ways do children most often use computers – for learning, research, or entertainment?
“It has helped us a lot, honestly,” Nikola begins. “The children use the equipment for learning, research, but mostly for entertainment. The Xbox is always in use, and we really take care of it.”
How many children currently use the donated equipment, and how many children are there overall at the children's shelter?
“As of December 31st, we finished services with 839 children. Currently, there are between 40 and 60 users in the shelter on a daily basis. We work from 8 AM to 8 PM, and children go through children's shelter all day.”
In what ways do children use computers to collaborate, help each other, or engage in activities?
“Well, they help each other, honestly, mostly with social media, but certainly with other things too.😊 Soon we’ll be collaborating with an IT specialist who will hold a workshop for them on how to create an email and similar things. We’ve also collaborated with a math teacher who showed them how to create avatars, and they used them afterwards. That was a real opportunity to use computers and for the children to work together and learn something new.”
Have you noticed that some children discover special interests or talents through working with computers?
“Yes, they have. Many children have a talent for drawing or singing, but I’ve also noticed some talents related to computers. I regret that we can’t dedicate more time to this area—honestly, I think we lack that part, to educate them more about computers and other skills, and that’s something we should work on in the future.”
Are there any children who clearly show a special enthusiasm for technology?
“I think some of them, when it comes to computers and technology, would prefer to acquire basic knowledge independent of school. That’s why we organized courses for a while, like basic Word skills, using the internet, searching for web addresses, and similar skills. The children really adapted well to that and were thrilled when they received certificates and awards.”
How would you like to further develop educational activities in children's shelter?
“We are trying, in addition to the primary schools, to involve as many organizations as possible from the non-governmental sector and other institutions and associations, where children can gain knowledge outside the school environment.”
How important is it that children have access to modern technology in a space like a children's shelter?
“It is very important. Aside from places like children's shelter, some children often don’t have access to computers or phones. They don’t have access to such technology, which further deprives them of many opportunities for learning and development. That’s why it’s extremely important that places like this provide children with access to technology.”
Is there anything that would make your work easier in the future?
“We’re always in need of computers and a color printer, which we’ve been trying to acquire for a long time, but unfortunately, we haven’t succeeded yet. It doesn’t have to be new; it just needs to be functional because we often print different materials for the children, which makes them very happy. In addition to technical equipment, we are always in need of clothing, diapers and baby supplies.”
Join the Effort – Help Us Empower Children
At children's shelter, every donation counts. You don’t need to make a big gesture to make a big impact. We believe every child deserves the chance to explore, learn and grow in a supportive environment.
We invite everyone to consider donating to a children's shelter. Together, we can ensure that children from marginalized backgrounds have the tools and opportunities they need for a brighter future.
To learn more or to donate to children's shelter: svratistezadecuimlade@gmail.com