HELP UKRAINE - Humanitarian relief in Chernivtsi

This time we greet you with the words of Giulia, the new project manager for IBO Italia in Ukraine. Giulia arrived in Ukraine at the beginning of April to support our local partner with the humanitarian aid activities.

“I have always been passionate about humanitarian work, and witnessing the immense needs and dire circumstances of people in Ukraine has driven me to take action. IBO Italia has been dedicated to this mission since the full escalation of the conflict in Ukraine.

When I first arrived in Ukraine, I didn't know what to expect. The media often highlights the Eastern frontlines, but even in areas far from the front, the war’s impact is deeply felt. Here, the brutal violence may not be visible, but the emotional and economic toll is immense.

Families are divided, with loved ones fighting or lost, and many people have been forced to flee their homes, struggling to rebuild their lives. The war has left behind empty storefronts and shuttered businesses, affecting the entire community. Wherever you may be, in a small village or in a large city, you will always find a memorial of the soldiers from the town that have died since the beginning of the war, a chance for people to remember and pay their tributes by bringing fresh flowers and candles.

During a visit to Kyiv, I witnessed a different atmosphere. The city is vibrant, with open restaurants and coffee shops filled with people. Yet, at any moment, the sound of a siren can shift the mood, a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict.

One poignant moment of my first period was visiting a school where we conduct Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) activities for children and teenagers. Inside the school, a memorial served as a stark reminder of the war’s pervasive presence in every aspect of life in Ukraine, regardless of where you are in the country and how it can never be forgotten. This underlines the importance of providing children with safe spaces to express themselves and enjoy moments of childhood. Our MHPSS sessions offer this through sports, cooking, and speech therapy, giving kids a vital outlet.

In Chernivtsi and surrounding rural communities, our support extends beyond psychological care. We distribute food to families of internally displaced people and local families facing food insecurity. We also provide vouchers for hygiene products, targeting large families and single-income households where women are the sole providers, as their partners are either fighting or have tragically lost their lives. The high demand during our distributions highlights the critical need for this type of support. Furthermore, we support people in accessing healthcare by providing screening packages and in the winter months we support newly arrived IDPs with fundamental items needed to survive the rigid winter months.”

Thank to Giulia for her time and valuable support.

And thank to you! Your contribution can make a significant difference. By donating, you help us continue these essential services and expand our reach to support even more families in need. Together, we can provide hope and stability to those affected by the conflict in Ukraine.