“SERBS FOR SERBS” BRING PEOPLE TOGETHER FOR CHARITY, RAISING KM 86,222

The second fundraising evening organized by the humanitarian organization “Serbs for Serbs” brought together more than 200 guests, with a total of KM 86,222 raised so far thanks to their generosity. Donations are still coming in, meaning the final amount is expected to be even higher.

PHOTO: Drugo donatorsko veće u Banjaluci

A charity auction attracted particular attention, raising KM 31,500. Among the valuable and unique items on offer were several that celebrated traditional craftsmanship and cultural heritage.

A collection featuring traditional Zmijanje embroidery, including a women's tie and a framed artwork inspired by this distinctive embroidery tradition, sold for EUR 2,000. A collection of works by Serbian poet Matija Bećković, bearing his personal dedication, fetched the same amount.

A commemorative jersey signed by FK Borac players, together with the book A Century of Banja Luka's Borac, was sold for EUR 1,750, while a water polo ball signed by members of the country's golden generation reached EUR 1,500.

The painting The Road to Imperial Hilandar sold for EUR 4,000, while The Miroslav Gospel fetched EUR 5,000.

STORIES OF FAMILIES WHOSE LIVES HAVE BEEN CHANGED

The fundraising evening began with a blessing from the clergy and the traditional breaking of bread, which guests shared with their hosts, becoming part of the humanitarian initiative.

One of the most emotional parts of the programme featured short films presenting the organization's work and the families that have received assistance over the years.

Guests had the opportunity to learn about families and their personal stories from the Republic of Srpska, Serbia, the former Republic of Serbian Krajina, Montenegro, Kosovo and Metohija, North Macedonia and the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Some families have received newly built homes or had their existing houses renovated, while others have been provided with livestock, agricultural machinery and equipment needed to earn a living.

According to the organization, assistance is tailored to the specific needs of each family, but the goal remains the same: helping people support themselves through their own work, giving children a safer childhood and offering families hope for a better future.

The films also highlighted aspects of humanitarian work that the public rarely gets to see, from conversations with families and field visits to planning, construction and the involvement of numerous people at every stage of providing assistance.

MORE THAN 18,500 CHILDREN HAVE RECEIVED HELP

The organization recalled that it has helped more than 18,500 children across the Balkans to date, emphasizing that this achievement would not have been possible without the support of people who recognized the importance of its mission.

“Your support shows that there are people who do not turn away from someone else's hardship, suffering and struggle, and who understand that great things can only be achieved when we stand together. Thank you,” the organizers said.

The fundraising evening once again demonstrated the power of solidarity and collective action in supporting families who need help the most.