The Chuguiv community was visited by a delegation from the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Ukraine, led by UNHCR Representative in Ukraine Bernadette Castel-Hollingsworth.
During the visit, representatives of the international organization got acquainted with the projects implemented in the Chuhuiv community, talked with residents who received humanitarian assistance, and discussed further areas of cooperation.
One of the locations was the children's space in Chuguiev, equipped in a radiation shelter with the support of UNHCR and thanks to the work of the Proliska charity foundation. In the renovated 120 square meter building, children have a safe and comfortable place to study, communicate, and develop creatively. Dance, theater, and music classes are held here, as well as leisure activities for children.
During the meeting, special attention was paid to the work of the Proliska Charity Fund, which has been supporting the Chuguiv community for a long time and helping residents whose homes were damaged by Russian shelling. The fund's specialists help people whose homes were damaged, in particular by restoring roofs, closing damaged perimeters of houses, and carrying out other priority repair work. And it's not just about building materials or work performed. The most important thing is the opportunity for people to return to normal life faster, save their homes, and feel that they are not left alone with the consequences of the war.
It is especially important that during the meeting, UNHCR representatives had the opportunity to communicate directly with community residents who received various types of assistance - winter support for the purchase of solid fuel, repair of damaged roofs and windows, etc. It is people's living stories that best show the true value of support.
The delegation visited another facility in the village of Kochetok. The I-PURE pilot project is being implemented here, aimed at increasing the energy efficiency of an apartment building. The project is intended to improve living conditions for 58 residents of 32 apartments and make the building more energy efficient.
During the meeting between the head of the city military administration, Halyna Minaeva, and Bernadette Castel-Hollingsworth, further areas of partnership were discussed. Among the priorities are supporting internally displaced persons, strengthening local infrastructure, and increasing the capacity of community utilities to prepare for the fall-winter period.
Halyna Minaeva emphasizes that the support of international partners is of particular importance in times of war. The implemented projects allow not only to provide people with the necessary assistance, but also to create conditions for recovery and a return to normal life.
«It is extremely valuable for us that you do not just help – you stay close, hear the needs of the community and look for solutions together with us,» noted Halyna Minaeva. “I am convinced that our cooperation has a great future. After all, each implemented project is effective assistance to specific people, another step towards the restoration and strengthening of our community. Thank you for your trust, support and partnership!”
The parties expressed their willingness to continue cooperation and jointly implement projects aimed at supporting residents and strengthening the Chuhuiv community.
