Thousands of lives in Kherson, Ukraine are under threat after a recent shelling attack on the Kakhovka dam. Now residents of the area are packing up go bags containing their most essential supplies as they flee from possible catastrophic flooding.
In situations like this, children often suffer first and the most — that’s why UNICEF prioritizes the safety and well-being of children first as a conflict develops. Rush your gift to help UNICEF act quickly during emergencies like the one unfolding right now in southern Ukraine >>
What’s the current situation?
Approximately 16,000 people are rushing to evacuate the region after a critical dam was attacked and destroyed in southern Ukraine earlier this morning. The dam was a hydroelectric power plant on the Dnipro River in Nova Kakhovka, a port city on the Kakhovka reservoir's southern bank. Major flooding is expected and families are fleeing their homes with only go bags or necessary supplies. Long-term concerns are also brewing with potential for electricity shortages and a possible lack of access to safe water.
What’s at stake for children?
First and foremost, catastrophic flooding puts the lives of children immediately at risk. When children are forced to leave their homes to seek alternative shelter, their reliable access to essentials like safe water, hygiene supplies and routine health care are impacted. In the long-term, continued active warfare makes a lasting impression on children’s mental health as their lives are completely upended.
How can you help?
This is yet another merciless attack on infrastructure that is vital to the well-being of people in Ukraine. UNICEF is already on the ground providing assistance to children and families such as distributing supplies like water bottles, hygiene kits and children’s kits to those directly impacted. UNICEF is also setting up additional Spilno centers in the Kherson train station and other points of transit to aid newly displaced families. Child-Friendly Spaces like UNICEF’s pop-up Spilno center in Kherson provide much-needed respite for children living through conflict around the world.
If you are able to today, please rush a gift to help support children in Ukraine and around the world in need of emergency assistance. |
Thank you for everything,
UNICEF USA |
