Students across Ukraine have suffered trauma, dislocation, and the loss of caregivers. MGGF is helping some 60 students begin their recovery process by underwriting the costs of their attending five Montessori schools along the front line. In addition, we're raising funds to enable those Ukrainian schools to acquire Montessori materials. These self correcting tools encourage exploration, strengthen self-confidence, and build academic and social skills.
The Russian invasion traumatized thousands of Ukrainian children, many of whom lost caregivers, their homes, and their communities. Their neighborhood schools have been destroyed, their homes are no longer habitable, their churches are damaged or closed. For many, especially those living along the front lines, their childhoods have been shattered, leaving them unsettled and fearful. They lack routine, a sense of safety, and are often cared for not by parents, but other relatives or neighbors.
MGGF, working in collaboration with Montessori Ukraine United Foundation located in The Netherlands, have helped fund about 60 children's tuition at five locations along the front line. These children, being immersed in Montessori pedagogy and surrounded by self-correcting Montessori classroom materials are beginning the long process of both coping amidst continued bombardment and healing from war trauma. This grant will continue the work underway, helping these traumatized children to heal.
It is expected that these 60 children will slowly recover their zest for life and learn coping skills to enable them to academically learn and thrive. These children will gain a sense of security, peace, routine and stability that will enable them to engage, collaborate, laugh and learn. Their caregivers have already noted that their pre-war personalities are beginning to return. Their continued attendance in these Ukrainian Montessori schools will enable to them fulfill their potential.
