Dad, mom, we are with you!
Waiting is not an option.
Early intervention at the right time can change a child's future. Help ensure that expert support reaches children and families when they need it most.
9.000+
Children and families
supported last year alone
75%
Children can catch up with their
peers with timely support
20+
Cities with available PORI
services
Waiting is not an option!
The Story of Nika and Andrea
Nika and Andrea are twin girls born prematurely. Their parents did not know where to turn for help. Months passed, and the most critical time for supporting their development was slowly slipping away.
Everything changed when they received support from a family-centred early intervention (PORI) team at the developmental counselling service of their local health centre.
“At last, we understand them — and they understand us.”
— Nika and Andrea's family, Čačak
Today, they speak, laugh and play with other children. This is the difference timely support can make.
Every year — around 4,000 children
In Serbia, around 4,000 children are born each year who show signs of developmental delays and need additional support.
Support provided in early childhood makes the greatest difference.
Specialized support where it’s needed the most
UNICEF, in cooperation with the Ministry of Health and other relevant ministries, is developing a network of professional PORI teams (Family-Centred Early Intervention) within developmental counselling services in primary health centres — places where children and parents receive support from professionals in health, education and social protection.
Support is not provided only in developmental counselling services. It is also available at home and in kindergarten — wherever it is needed most and where children learn best and make the greatest progress.
However, many families still struggle to access this type of support and have no one to turn to.
Expanding our support across Serbia
We aim to make this support available to every child — regardless of where they live. In the coming period, we plan to equip and strengthen developmental counselling services and PORI teams in Pančevo, Sombor, Smederevo, Požarevac and Vranje, as well as expand PORI support to smaller municipalities in areas where developmental counselling services already exist, so that support can reach families in smaller and more remote communities.
Because no family should have to face their child’s developmental challenges alone.
Clear and measurable results
To ensure that children with developmental risks, delays and difficulties receive support during the most critical period of development
To ensure that parents receive timely support and are not left alone
To ensure the provision of educational and assistive equipment for working with children
To equip spaces for working with children and families in developmental counselling services
TTo provide vehicles so that professional PORI teams can reach homes, kindergartens, and families in smaller and remote communities
Your support will help children with developmental risks and difficulties receive timely help, ensure that parents are not left alone, and make expert support available to families across Serbia.
Donate and help children enjoy a happy childhood
FAQ
What does UNICEF do in Serbia?
Our organization supports reform processes in the Republic of Serbia to ensure that every child can realize their rights in early childhood development, education and child protection. We work closely with decision-makers, while also acting as an independent voice for children and young people.
What is the UNICEF Friends Club?
The UNICEF Friends Club is made up of regular donors whose monthly contributions enable UNICEF to provide vital support for children both in emergency situations and every day throughout the year, as part of its regular programme for children in Serbia.
How can I be sure my money is used properly?
UNICEF regularly publishes annual reports on its work and informs the public about the results achieved for children. Transparency is part of our identity. See our 2024 results in Serbia.