UNFPA has transferred a vehicle to the Territorial Agency for Social Assistance (ATAS) North-Northwest, under the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection. This initiative, supported by UNFPA with financial support from the United States, contributes to promoting inclusion and equitable access to quality social services, including violence prevention and response, as part of the "RESTART" reform measures.

The donation of the vehicle to ATAS North-Northwest, based in Bălți, will significantly enhance the agency team's mobility and immediate intervention, marking an important step in strengthening social services for people with disabilities.

"We continue to invest in the RESTART reform, providing our colleagues with the necessary equipment and vehicles to bring us closer to the people and to enhance access to the social services offered by the Territorial Agencies and Social Assistance Structures. With this new vehicle, donated with the support of UNFPA, we will be able to reach even more beneficiaries, especially those in hard-to-reach localities, and provide assistance to those who need our intervention the most", stated Alexei Buzu, Minister of Labor and Social Protection.

"UNFPA will continue to support the government's RESTART reform and contribute to fulfilling commitments to promote inclusion and access for people with disabilities to social protection services, as well as violence prevention and response. The donation of this vehicle will bring specialists closer to people with disabilities in the local community and Ukrainian refugees, ensuring they receive the dignified and safe care they deserve", stated Dr. Karina Nersesyan, UNFPA Resident Representative in Moldova.

In December 2023, UNFPA transferred an additional 10 vehicles to the new Territorial Social Assistance Agencies (ATAS) under the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection. This initiative represents a significant step in strengthening social services and combating gender-based violence in the Republic of Moldova, as part of the "RESTART" reform measures.