Erste bank and "Caritas" in Austria collect money for most endangered layers of society in east Europe

In 2008, Erste Bank will continue to support "Caritas'" campaign for collecting funds for children from the poorest countries of Eastern Europe. Donations in Austria will be collected through "Kontakt" program.

Quick economic growth does not guarantee social stability in these countries and that all citizens will have equal benefits from the development of society as a whole. For that reason, Erste Bank Group decided to renew its partnership with Caritas and obliged to back Caritas’ campaign intended for children in the poorest countries of Europe.

Cooperation between Erste Bank Group and Caritas, which commenced in 1999, anticipates provision of support in realization of the campaign. With the support from the bank, by means of advertising on TV stations, in printed media and on billboards, potential donors will be invited to give their contributions and, in that way, back this initiative of Caritas and help the poorest and the most endangered people in Europe.

The funds collected during this campaign will help children in southeast Europe and in the countries of former Soviet Union who live on the edge of existence. There are about 18 million children living in this region whose elementary existence is under question mark, and Caritas takes care of them – in orphanages, foster care centers and centers for mother and child.

In addition, Erste bank group will directly finance one special project in 2008, which will be implemented in the scope of "Caritas' youth community" in Romanian city of Bakovo. This facility makes it possible for the kids from the street, who initially found sanctuary in "Caritas'" doss-house in Timisoara, to master technical handicrafts and running of community they live in and start a new life. The Youth community gives a chance to every kid to build stable life and career.