Yevheniia Hustilina, Kyiv region: “Every hand extended to help is proof that we are not alone”

Before the full-scale invasion, Yevheniia was a social worker in Kostiantynivka. In her role, she worked with many people, most of whom were facing difficult life circumstances. She says one of her guiding principles is: “You cannot walk past a person in need, ignoring their pain and needs, because their life may depend on it.” With the outbreak of war, this principle became urgent and undeniable.

She recalls that the city came under attack almost immediately. It was at that moment that Yevheniia made her choice — to support everyone she could.

Later, after moving to Vyshhorod in the Kyiv region, she completed her training and joined the emergency response team as a volunteer.

“Volunteering with the Ukrainian Red Cross,” Yevheniia explains, “is about people with compassionate hearts. They go where it is frightening and difficult, no matter what. They provide assistance, shelter, and hot tea when it is needed most.”

She recounts one moment when her team helped transport an elderly woman from a hospital to her home. The woman was very weak. Yevheniia tried to support her through conversation, asking whether she was comfortable, whether her condition was worsening, and whether she wanted water. Each time, the woman responded quietly but confidently. Her voice was barely a whisper, yet it carried a special warmth. Later, they learned that the patient’s condition did not actually allow for conversation — yet she spoke and even smiled. This experience inspired Yevheniia to continue her work.

“What inspires a volunteer? First and foremost, it’s the people — their ‘thank you for being here’ when the darkness around seems endless. The work itself is inspiring. Every trip, every meeting, every hand extended to help — it is a small proof that we are not alone,” she says.

Yevheniia encourages anyone who is interested in volunteering. She cautions, however, that if you join just to fill free time, it won’t last long. But if you have a deep, ongoing desire to help, support, and bring warmth to others, volunteering can become a lifelong calling.