Right to Dignity: Care Ukraine's Most Vulnerable

Over the past quarter, your contributions were directed to support vulnerable older people in the Kharkiv region — an area that continues to face regular attacks and deep insecurity. Thanks to this support, five older people received assistance from Right to Protection’s social workers, including help with medicines, food, hygiene items, access to medical care, and other essential daily needs.

One of them is Liudmyla from Kharkiv. She and her husband shared 52 years together, building their life side by side. After he passed away, loneliness became one of the hardest parts of her daily life. Her children had to leave Kharkiv because of the war, and although they call often and support her as much as possible, Liudmyla still misses having her family close. Living on a small pension, with chronic pain and limited mobility, she spends nearly all of her income on medication, utilities, and food. With eye surgery and support from R2P social worker Larysa — who accompanied her to appointments, helped secure financial assistance, and stayed in close contact — Liudmyla regained much of her vision. Today, she can once again enjoy the roses her late husband planted and spend time outside talking with her neighbours.

Serhii, also from Kharkiv, is facing old age largely on his own after his family was scattered by the war and life circumstances. His son lives outside Ukraine, and his daughter moved to Sweden after the full-scale invasion. They stay in touch through calls and messages, but Serhii deeply misses them — especially his granddaughter, whom he dreams of hugging again. At the same time, he lives with rheumatism, leg pain, and high blood pressure, while much of his limited income goes toward medication and utility bills. Support from R2P and social worker Larysa, who helped him access medicine, clothing, and other essentials, has become a lifeline.

For older people living alone in war-affected communities, care is more than practical assistance. It is medicine delivered on time, help getting to medical appointments, a warm conversation, and the feeling that someone remembers you. Thanks to donor support, R2P social workers can continue helping older people like Liudmyla and Serhii live with greater dignity, safety, and human connection.

Links:

• Visit our website to learn more
• Subscribe to R2P's news digest on LinkedIn

Sometimes the most important support begins with a simple visit. For Liubov and Ivan, two older people living alone in Chernihiv — a frontline city in northern Ukraine — the arrival of social worker Tamara means help, reassurance, and the comfort of knowing they are not facing everyday challenges alone.

Through our home care program, Tamara regularly visits them to assist with essential daily tasks such as cleaning and preparing meals. These small but vital forms of support allow Liubov and Ivan to continue living safely and with dignity in their own homes. Tamara also accompanies them to medical facilities and public institutions when needed, helping them access services and navigate systems that can otherwise be difficult to manage alone.

Since the launch of this campaign at the end of November, five older people have already received this kind of home care support. In the context of the ongoing war and rising prices for food, medicine, and basic necessities, this assistance plays a crucial role for older people who live on very limited resources.

For Liubov and Ivan, Tamara’s visits are about much more than practical help. They bring stability, human connection, and the reassurance that someone cares and is there to support them during uncertain times. Thanks to your support, moments like these are possible.

Links:

• Subscribe to R2P's news digest on LinkedIn
• Visit our website to learn more