In our dynamic daily life any act of sympathy and assistance to those in pain or in need should be made known to as many people as possible. In 2002 the International Caritas Day remained in the memories of Rakovski citizens with the opening of the Home Care Center.

In 1999 an an application was made by the catholic dioscese St. Archangel Michail for restitution of a part of the church s property, on which there was an assembly construction used for municipality purposes. Owing to the fast action of the local government a month later the property was given back to its former owner. After solving the ownership issue, ways were sought to use it to the benefit of the community. Thus originated the idea for the setting up of the Caritas Home Care Center which started its acitivity in November 2002. With financial support of Caritas and in kind citizens labour the building was renovated. Three nurses were appointed to work there and a new van was provided for the Center activities.

In close cooperation and directions from the medical staff of St. Anna s policlinic and St Elisaveta s medical center, services were initiated for ill, disabled and elderly people in their homes, including:

- Daily toiletry for people who are immobile and keeping to bed

- Purchase of medicine by prescription

- Measuring blood pressure

- Transporting to hospital for prophylactic checks

- Home help with cleaning up, buying food or paying bills

- Donations of medinices, food and clothes.

Caritas activity becomes a sign of hope for the people of Rakovski. Though unable to help everyone they demonstrate to the community that with little money and a lot of sympathy they can improve their lives. Many young people were involved in giving home care, and plans are that in cooperation with the municipality 5 unemployed people will be given work.

Though in their very beginning, results from the Home Care Center are impressive. People admire the services and care provided to the suffering and the needy. The gratefulness seen in their eyes is the highest sign of appreciation for the organisers work.