Support for Children in Ukraine

Project Overview
Since 2023, Caritas Austria, together with local partners, has provided vital support to children and families in Ukraine whose lives have been shattered by war. Through education programs, psychosocial support, child protection measures, and humanitarian aid, this project has offered safety, hope, and stability to some of the most vulnerable.

What We Achieved Together

• Safe Learning & Child-Friendly Spaces: More than 26,000 children participated in activities across 26 Child-Friendly Spaces and Children’s Centers. These provided safe environments where children could play, learn, and simply be children again.
• Psychosocial Support: Over 20,000 children benefited from trauma-sensitive care, helping them cope with fear, anxiety, and loss. Hundreds of teachers and caregivers were trained to support children’s mental well-being.
• Education & Skills Development: Thousands of children gained access to inclusive education, life-skills workshops, and digital learning opportunities. New learning spaces were set up, including in displaced communities.
• Family & Child Protection Support: Thousands of vulnerable families received legal aid, social counseling, and parenting support, strengthening protective family environments and preventing separation.
• Humanitarian Relief: Families in conflict-affected areas received food parcels, hygiene kits, winter clothing, and heating support, ensuring children’s basic needs were met even in the harshest conditions.

Stories of Change

• Anya, a 10-year-old from Donetsk, found stability after months of displacement by joining art therapy sessions in one of our child-friendly spaces. She regained confidence and friendships, symbolizing the resilience of many children.
• Olga, a young girl from Berestovo, initially withdrawn and fearful, thrived in a Caritas safe room where she learned to play, make friends, and express herself freely. Today she is confident and socially engaged.

Impact and Legacy
This project has not only provided immediate relief but also strengthened children’s resilience and communities’ capacity to protect and care for them. By combining emergency aid with long-term support, Caritas has helped thousands of children in Ukraine rebuild a sense of normalcy in the midst of crisis.

Closing Note
As we close this project on GlobalGiving, we sincerely thank every donor for their solidarity. Your contributions have directly impacted the lives of children and families, giving them hope and dignity during the most difficult of times. While this project ends here, Caritas Austria will continue its work in Ukraine, committed to protecting children and supporting communities on their path to recovery.