UnicefUSA
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We recently invited you to ask us anything about UNICEF’s work to protect children caught in the war in Ukraine. Thank you for the outpouring of passionate, thoughtful and generous responses. All of us at UNICEF USA are so grateful to have a community that is so engaged and committed to this work. We shared some of the most frequently asked questions with Ukraine expert Andres Kragelund, Assistant Director of UNICEF USA’s Emergency Coordination Team. Here’s what he had to say.
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YOU: What happens at a Blue Dot and how many people are using them?
ANDRES: Located at key points along refugee routes, Blue Dot hubs provide a safe, welcoming space to rest, play and simply be a child, at a time when their world has been abruptly turned upside-down in fear and panic. Each hub has the capacity to support 3,000 to 5,000 people per day with a range of essential services and supplies, including referral services to integrate families and children into local systems after they leave. As of mid-April, UNICEF has established 16 Blue Dots which have reached over 30,000 people.
YOU: Is UNICEF working in partnership with other organizations and nonprofits?
ANDRES: In Ukraine, UNICEF continues to work closely with the Government of Ukraine, UN agencies and humanitarian and private sector partners through established interagency coordination mechanisms. Close consultations are also being held with presidential advisors and key ministries as well as with mayors in several cities. In neighboring countries, UNICEF continues to build on its close relationships with municipalities and engage with national networks to ensure support in refugee hosting countries.
YOU: What kind of safety measures are in place for UNICEF workers on the ground?
ANDRES: The safety and security of all our staff and their dependents is of paramount importance. We are asking for our colleagues to be able to work for children inside Ukraine without hindrance or risk of harm. Despite the growing operational and security challenges in Ukraine, UNICEF remains committed to staying on the ground, because there are children in desperate need. These colleagues are working around the clock in very difficult circumstances, providing assistance whenever and wherever security conditions allow.
YOU: Is UNICEF providing emotional support and counseling of some sort for the children and families traumatized by the war and displacement?
ANDRES: UNICEF is providing various interventions in Blue Dots in neighboring countries and continues to support children in Ukraine through Mobile Rapid Response teams. Each team has a social worker, psychologist, lawyer and nurse who provide psychosocial and legal support and referrals to other protection services.
YOU: Are there educational and social opportunities for displaced children?
ANDRES: In Ukraine, through UNICEF-supported efforts, at least 59,000 children have benefited from learning interventions with supplies provided by UNICEF. Over 65,000 children have been involved in formal or non-formal education. UNICEF and partners are also supporting the streaming of online classes and sharing at-home learning resources.
We're so appreciative of Andres and the large network of UNICEF staff coordinating emergency response to this war and other crises around the world. In the face of danger, UNICEF crisis teams often risk their lives to ensure that children’s needs are met. Your support plays a crucial role in helping them reach every child.
As the situation in Ukraine evolves, we’ll make sure you stay informed on the latest news and ways to help children.
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If you want to learn even more about UNICEF’s work in Ukraine, you can find stories of impact and key information on our website >>
Thank you for all of your support,
UNICEF USA
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