Dear friend, This update is part of our ongoing series to help keep you informed about Mercy Corps’ latest work in Ukraine. Since the start of the conflict on February 24, the war has taken lives, torn families apart, displaced more than 12 million people, and escalated the global hunger crisis. Mercy Corps is acting quickly to help meet the urgent needs of the millions seeking refuge. We are supporting 40 local organizations that are distributing food, water, medical supplies, and other essential items, and providing critical services and shelter. Our local partners are deeply aware of their communities’ needs. Together, we are building our capacity to serve people displaced by the war. Two-thirds of children in Ukraine are now displaced, either within Ukraine or fleeing to nearby countries. Many children have woken to the sound of an airstrike alert or witnessed the war’s destruction firsthand. Some have been separated from one or both parents, grandparents, other family members, and friends. With our local partners, we’re offering supplies and services for children such as clothing, diapers, temporary education, and counseling. One of our local partners in Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine, set up a day care center for children displaced by the war. The center provides free care for children, ages 6-10, Monday through Friday. It is an opportunity for children to play, learn, and have fun. It also allows their parents to have time to access needed services and plan for what comes next. It’s a bit of normal life for children and their families during a time of intense unrest.
The day starts with "gathering," a time when children settle in for the day, sit in a circle, and participate in exercises. Marta, the director of the day care, welcomes a child from her classroom with a hug.
At the center, children participate in basic classes, arts and crafts, learning games, trips to nearby parks and theaters, and more. Denys, a teacher at the center, says "they are just children who love to play, to run, to scream."
The center provides lunch and snack times, which are also moments for children to socialize and make new friends.
Center teacher Denys helps a girl get ready to go outside to play. He says his favorite part of the job is giving children support and attention "...because that’s what they need. And, for the children who don’t have their parents near them right now, it is important."
Will you join us as a Partner In Possibility today? Sincerely, The Mercy Corps team |
|