Humanitarian Activities of the “Step with Hope” International Charity Fund
Support for Displaced Persons and Local Population in the War Zones
The “Step with Hope” charity fund actively helps displaced people from conflict zones as well as local residents affected by the war. The primary goal is to provide food, medicine, and hygiene products to those in dire need of support. Regular deliveries of humanitarian bread to regions like Znamianka, Zmiiv, Merefa, and also to Kryvyi Rih and Kamianske help people survive during these challenging times. For instance, 170 loaves of bread were distributed in Kryvyi Rih over a week, offering significant assistance to pensioners and displaced individuals.
Hygiene and Sanitary Aid
The foundation also addresses sanitation safety issues. In the Kherson region, active deratization and disinfection of residential and basement areas used as bomb shelters are being carried out. This ensures safety and comfort for residents, preventing the spread of diseases. Additionally, in cities like Druzhkivka, Balakliia, and many others, adult diapers are provided to those who are bedridden or unable to move independently.
Psycho-Social Support
“Step with Hope” not only provides material aid but also offers psycho-social support to displaced persons. In cities like Kamianske, first aid training, psychotherapeutic meetings, and art therapy for children are held. These activities help those who have experienced war trauma find strength to keep going and feel supported by the community.
Assisting with Bomb Shelter Arrangements
In regions suffering from regular shelling, the fund’s volunteers help arrange basements and bomb shelters. For example, in Kherson, deratization measures were taken in basements, allowing residents to set them up for overnight stays with Wi-Fi, boilers, and toilets, ensuring safety amidst constant threats.
Medical Support
Medical assistance is a critical component of the fund’s work. Volunteers not only deliver essential medicines but also organize medical check-ups for disadvantaged groups. For example, in the Kryvyi Rih district, more than 500 people, including large families, the unemployed, and single mothers, received medical services.
Winter Support
As winter approaches, the fund actively collects winter clothing for displaced persons and those in need.
Support for Rural Communities
“Step with Hope” also supports small and remote rural communities, which suffer from isolation and lack of resources. For instance, in the village of Vesele in the Nikopol district, volunteers delivered three tons of drinking water and sweets for children, which provided crucial support for local residents. Once a prosperous village, it has now been severely impacted by the war and economic decline, and the foundation’s assistance is lifesaving for those who remain.
Housing Assistance for Displaced Persons
The “Step with Hope” foundation not only provides material aid but also helps displaced persons with housing issues. Many people who fled dangerous regions face difficulties finding permanent accommodation. For example, Natalia, who came from occupied Dobropillia to Pavlohrad, was forced to change her place of stay frequently. Thanks to the foundation’s help, she was provided with temporary housing and essential hygiene products.
Support for Children and Families with Children
The foundation focuses on supporting families with children. In many regions, such as Znamianka and Kharkiv, there is a significant need for diapers, baby food, and basic groceries. Large families and single mothers can rely on regular assistance from the foundation, which often becomes the only source of support for these families. Volunteers also organize children’s art therapy sessions and cooking workshops, as seen in Kamianske.
Transportation Issues for Humanitarian Aid Deliveries
One of the challenges the foundation faces is transportation for delivering humanitarian aid. For instance, in Kamianske, the vehicles used to transport food and other items constantly break down due to their age. Despite this, volunteers continue their work, finding temporary solutions to ensure the delivery of aid to those in need.
Thus, the humanitarian work of the “Step with Hope” charity foundation covers a wide range of activities: from providing basic necessities and essential supplies to offering medical and psycho-social support. Thanks to the tireless efforts of volunteers, the foundation changes the lives of thousands of people every day, giving them support and hope for a better future.
