On Thursday 30 October, a residential complex for handicapped children was opened in Valea Mare, Stefanesti. The project was initiated by Sera Romania Association, and was partnered by the Arges County Council and the local subsidiary of the DGASPC. Dacia has been a major contributor by donating 100,000 euros that helped finish the building constructions.

The residential complex was built on the former hostel of the Stefanesti special school. The hostel that used to be home to 57 children had previously been the official residence of the State Security Department in the 1960s, while the windowless basement served as torture cell. Later, the building became a shelter for children who were rejected by the communist society. Until recently, these children used to live in harsh conditions; they were packed in suffocating dormitories, had no recreation spaces, and the kitchen and dining room had no sanitary authorization. With the support brought by Dacia, three residential buildings able to accommodate 12 children each have replaced the former hostel. The new homes are adapted to the special needs of the children, who will have the opportunity to add a comfortable and personal touch to their new home.

"The story of the children from Stefanesti impressed us, so we decided to help by giving them a chance to life. We could not but support the project, given that most of our employees live in Arges. I am glad that the 36 children will now have a chance to learn, to play and to grow in decent conditions, just as any child should" said Fran�ois Fourmont, CEO at Automobile Dacia.

In 2006, Dacia lent another helping hand to the same Sera Association and helped build the residential complex Dumbrava Minunata from Tarlungeni, in the Brasov County.

By giving marginalized children, orphans and handicapped children a chance to life, Dacia confirms its social awareness and responsibility towards improving life of the Arges community.