Valeriia Khoruzha, Dnipro region: volunteering as a way to cope with anxiety

Valeriia Khoruzha joined the Ukrainian Red Cross after being forced to relocate from Lysychansk to Ternivka in 2022. Having experienced the loss of her own home, she understands first-hand what it means to face uncertainty and hardship. This personal experience inspired her to start volunteering and to support others going through similar challenges.

Following the relocation of the Myrnohrad City Branch of the Ukrainian Red Cross to Ternivka in 2024, the team began providing regular humanitarian assistance to local residents in need. Particular attention is given to supporting internally displaced people (IDPs), including help for those with pets.

Today, Valeriia works alongside a team of more than 40 volunteers, providing support wherever it is needed most. For her, volunteering is not about heroism, but about simple humanity — standing by those in need, offering support, and reassuring them that they are not alone in facing their difficulties.

Her story is about the strength of community and the decision to help others, even while facing challenges of her own.