Her work brings benefit and meaning to life: the work of the Ukrainian Red Cross social helper

“Nataliia Polikarpivna is a psychologist and seems to have some kind of heavenly power,” says Mariia, a beneficiary of the Ukrainian Red Cross Home-Based Care programme.

Nataliia Lytvynenko is a social helper at the Ukrainian Red Cross. Every day, she cares for older adults and people with disabilities. Nataliia has met many of her beneficiaries in states of deep depression. Still, through her daily care, she has helped them gradually regain emotional balance and find the strength to live. Her attention and sincerity inspire trust and gratitude, and her beneficiaries begin to care for her in return.

Nataliia is actively supported by her husband, who is also a volunteer and works as an electrician. In difficult times, Nataliia finds inspiration in knowing that her work brings real benefits and fills her life with meaning.

The Ukrainian Red Cross social helpers provide home-based care to elderly individuals who are lonely or in need of assistance. They help with daily household tasks, such as cleaning, cooking, and changing bed linen. Additionally, they assist with social matters, including accompanying beneficiaries to medical appointments, purchasing and delivering food, water, and other essential items, helping with utility bill payments, and going for walks together. Social helpers also provide hygiene services and, most importantly, offer emotional support and companionship — something especially crucial for elderly individuals facing loneliness during such a challenging time for the country. This support is vital for those who face old age alone.