On 5 September, the world celebrates the International Day of Charity
This day reminds us of the importance of coming together and supporting those in need. Children, in particular, require our support, as the war has deprived them of their carefree and happy childhood.
Every day, children are exposed to the destruction of homes, hospitals, and schools, as well as the loss of loved ones and friends. They also face personal challenges, such as adapting to a new city after fleeing from danger and adjusting to a new school or kindergarten. These experiences contribute to psychological trauma and, in some cases, more severe conditions.
To minimise children’s stress, the Ukrainian Red Cross is opening psychosocial support centres across the country. Specialists work with children in these centres, as they often hesitate to share their feelings and thoughts with their parents. We create a supportive and safe environment where children and parents can communicate, spend time together, and share their experiences. This approach helps them cope with sadness, fear, uncertainty, and other difficult emotions.
Each child has their own important story and challenging experiences in the context of war. On the occasion of the International Day of Charity, we have collected some of these stories.
- Andrii Pavlenko drew “The Importance of Help” during an event in Zaporizhzhia. At just 12 years old, the boy knows firsthand what it is like to leave home due to the war. He and his family were displaced from Ivanivka village in the Kherson region. Andrii deeply appreciates the support he received from Ukrainian Red Cross volunteers and is grateful for their help.
- Another artist is 9-year-old Ilana Rusnak from Khotyn, Chernivtsi region. She attends Lyceum No. 5, where she benefits from psychosocial support. Ilana frequently participates in events organised at the local shelter. For over two years, she has been assisting volunteers, imagining herself as part of the Ukrainian Red Cross team. She was inspired by her mother, a volunteer whom Ilana admires and sees as a role model.
- Ariadna Ilishchuk, 12, participates in events at Yurii Fedkovych Lyceum in Putyla, Chernivtsi region. She first joined the group in April last year. According to her mother, Ariadna has become more emotionally open, sociable, and less anxious. When she does experience anxiety, she is now better equipped to handle stress.
Our psychosocial support activities have already reached 541,397 Ukrainians, including 299,632 children. You can support our vital work here.
Together, we can help young Ukrainians navigate the challenges of war, reduce their stress, and offer them a chance to experience the joys of life. Every donation makes a significant difference!
