By Tetiana Tutchenkova | Project Manager
In May 2026, we launched the first group of our psychosocial support program for children who lost their homes because of the war and are now living in Vinnytsia, Ukraine. Eight children aged 8–13 participated in five art therapy sessions, each lasting two hours. The classes were held once a week in a safe and welcoming environment where children could express themselves through creativity, build confidence, and reconnect with their peers.
At the beginning of the program, many of the children were quiet, withdrawn, and reluctant to communicate with one another. However, by the third session, we began to see meaningful changes. One participant, whom we will call Olya, was so inspired by painting that she created an additional artwork outside the planned activities and started building friendships with other children in the group. For many participants, these classes became the first safe space they had experienced in a long time—a place where they did not have to talk about war, but could simply be children again. During each session, we also shared tea, sweets, and informal conversations, helping create a sense of community and belonging.
This project became possible thanks to the support of our partners. The French association Vesna 64 funded the art workshops, while Magic Company provided canvases, paints, brushes, and a venue for the classes. Local media partner "20 Minutes Vinnytsia" continues to raise awareness about the project and the needs of war-affected children by regularly publishing stories about our activities.
As a result of this first stage, the children created eight paintings. These artworks will be exhibited at charity events in France to raise awareness and support for children affected by the war in Ukraine. Encouraged by these positive outcomes, we have already formed a new group of participants and will continue the program in June 2026.
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