Ukraine: Winter aid for children – SOS Children's Villages sound the alarm!

Ukraine: Winter aid for children – SOS Children's Villages sound the alarm!

Already the third winter of war in Ukraine represents an immense challenge for the population, especially for children and families. According to Serhii Lukashov, the head of SOS Children's Villages in Ukraine, many of them are threatened with profound hardship with the onset of winter. An alarming fact is that nearly 2 million homes are either destroyed or severely damaged and infrastructure is significantly compromised due to tense attacks. The problem of electricity supply is serious, especially after the massive attacks at the end of August in which the energy infrastructure in 15 regions was attacked.

Those most at risk are the 3.7 million internally displaced people, who often live in makeshift shelters. These emergency homes are not suitable for the extreme winter conditions; There is a lack of insulation, heating and even hot water. The blankets and warm clothing provided are also inadequate. The situation is further exacerbated by the severe winter temperatures, which can be life-threatening, especially for small children. “The risk of hypothermia is high, which can cause serious damage to health,” Lukashov explained.

The mental strain

In addition to the physical challenges, people also have to deal with enormous psychological stress. Lukashov describes that the population has been living under constant stress for three years. “Now they are once again faced with the task of surviving the winter under extremely difficult conditions,” he says. This repeated trauma causes many to reach their psychological limits. In this critical situation, international support is essential. Not only is survival at risk, but people's dignity and hope are also at stake.

In order to counteract these difficult circumstances, SOS Children's Villages provides targeted support to families and children in Ukraine. The organization provides around 1,500 children and adults with urgently needed supplies and cash. This assistance also includes repairs to damaged roofs and windows as well as the provision of fuel. Another step is to equip the social center in Kiev with emergency generators to provide people with a safe place and to ensure power supply for their computers and work equipment. Those affected also receive psychosocial support, which is crucial in this situation.

These relief efforts are crucial to help the people of Ukraine and improve their living conditions during this critical winter period. SOS Children's Villages make a valuable contribution to bringing hope and support in the midst of despair, but the need for international help remains undeniable.