Psychosocial Activities of the “Step with Hope” International Charitable Foundation
Dear friends and partners!
We sincerely thank you for your support and trust. The past week has been an eventful period for the psychosocial department of the “Step with Hope” Foundation. We worked in Dnipro, Samara, and Kryvyi Rih, helping both adults and children find inner balance, recover, and rediscover the joy of life.
Psychological Support Programs for Adults
Life presents challenges to everyone, and it is crucial to know that there are people ready to support, listen, and help find the way forward.
Dnipro
- Art Therapy: Creativity as a means of expressing emotions and overcoming stress. Drawing, sculpting, and collage-making helped participants find harmony and articulate their feelings.
- Anti-Stress Course: Building resilience and emotional awareness—
- Why is it important to recognize our emotions?
- How do emotions affect our lives?
- How can we express them in a healthy way without harming ourselves or others?
- How do we find inner strength even when we feel exhausted?
Samara
- Traditional Doll-Making Workshop: An age-old tradition that fosters a sense of home warmth and allows participants to symbolically leave behind difficult emotions.
- “Planted with Purpose” Program: A meeting at a shelter focused on self-worth and the inner potential of each person.
- “Rules of Friendship” Discussion: Exploring the essence of true friendship, how to build healthy relationships, and how to support one another in difficult times.
- Anti-Stress Course – Handling Criticism: Learning to accept constructive feedback, overcome fear of judgment, and use it for personal growth.
Working with Children
Children are the light that must be protected. That’s why we strive to make every meeting special, filled with discovery, joy, and support.
Samara
- Journey Around the World: Our fifth stop was Egypt! Children learned about its history and created thematic clay sculptures.
- Exploring Ukraine’s National Flag: Young Ukrainians discovered the history behind their country’s symbols.
- “True or False” Game: An intellectual challenge that helped children develop critical thinking skills.
- Dumpling-Making Workshop: Cooking together, tasting, and learning teamwork.
- Spring Crafts: Welcoming spring through creativity, discussing nature, and making vibrant artworks.
- Clown Entertainment Program: A sea of joy, dancing, games, and gifts—because laughter is a true miracle.
- Lesson on Respect: Teaching children that every person deserves dignity, emphasizing kindness, respect for others, and self-respect.
Kryvyi Rih
- “Hearts in Healing” Club: A session on conflicts, where children learned to identify the causes of disputes and find peaceful solutions.
- Dream Collage: Teenagers created vision boards depicting their dreams and future plans.
- “Spring Has Come” for Younger Kids: Painting, creating, and discussing seasonal changes in nature and life.
Thank you for being with us! Each meeting, session, and therapy we conduct is not just an event but a step toward recovery, light, and new opportunities. We deeply appreciate everyone who supports us—your help allows us to continue this vital work.
Kherson Region
Kherson
The East District remains completely without electricity, having been in darkness for nearly a year due to relentless enemy shelling. The situation remains dire, making it impossible to send repair crews without endangering their lives.
A man named Ihor reached out to “Step with Hope” for help in obtaining a generator. We immediately agreed but were faced with a difficult decision when we learned where exactly it was needed. Entering the area by car was impossible—vehicles are easy targets, making the journey extremely risky.
After a long conversation with Ihor, we tried to persuade him to evacuate, but he had a strong reason to stay. He cares for numerous animals, including those abandoned by former residents. Additionally, elderly people who chose to remain in the district depend on him. Evacuation is nearly impossible now, with only one remaining pathway, and it can only be traversed on foot.
We loaded the generator onto a bicycle, and Ihor successfully transported it to the East District. This generator will not only support Ihor but also provide relief to his neighbors. We also provided a canister of fuel and oil for maintenance.
It is heartbreaking to see lifelong residents now forced to live under such extreme conditions, dodging danger just to move through the streets. Ihor expressed immense gratitude, stating that this aid would help many survive. Hearing his words, we could barely hold back our emotions.
The “Step with Hope” team remains steadfast in supporting those in need, wherever they may be.
Donetsk Region
Current Situation
Traveling to this region grows increasingly dangerous. A key road has narrowed significantly, allowing only one vehicle to pass at a time. Shelling has intensified, becoming more frequent and severe. As a result, locals live in a constant state of fear and stress, requiring urgent psychological support.
Our team has accepted this challenge, providing not only humanitarian aid but also emotional support. In addition to distributing bread, we engage with people, uplift their spirits, and create support groups for mutual encouragement. Group meetings help individuals face hardships together and learn how to support one another.
Community Life
Despite the difficult circumstances, we strive to keep people’s spirits high. Though our trip lasted three days, it felt like a fleeting moment. On Sunday, we organized a kind of work therapy: inviting residents to clean the area around the support center. Many joined in, and it became not just a practical activity but an opportunity for social connection. People left feeling uplifted, a reminder that they are part of a community.
Druzhkivka
Throughout the week, our team organized:
- Bread distribution;
- Providing eyeglasses to those in need;
- Children’s workshops;
- A charity lunch.
Stories of People
Serhii Petrovych – an elderly man who can barely walk. Recently, he fell and broke his glasses, leaving him in a difficult situation, as he cannot even read without them. After hearing from neighbors that the Step with Hope Foundation helps with eyeglasses, he took his cane and made his way to us. We still do not know how he managed to get there, as by the time he arrived, everyone had already left. Upon learning about his problem, we carefully selected a pair of glasses for him. His gratitude was beyond words.
Olha Petrovna – her home suffered severe damage from shelling; the roof and part of the wall collapsed. She expressed her heartfelt thanks for the bread provided, which has become an essential lifeline for her.
Despite all the challenges, we continue to support those who need help the most.
Kharkiv Region
Hope in Action: Stories from Across Ukraine!
In times of hardship, every good deed holds immense value. Our foundation continues to support people facing extreme difficulties due to the war. We receive countless words of gratitude from those we have helped, and we want to share their stories with you.
Znamianka: A Retiree’s Heartfelt Thanks
“My name is Valerii Mykhailovych, I am 67 years old. I live alone and survive on a small pension. The assistance from your foundation is invaluable to me. Thank you sincerely for the bread and for your kindness! I wish the Step with Hope Foundation good health and God’s blessing!”
Such words inspire us to work even harder because even the smallest help can be a great support to those in need.
Merefa: Living Through Struggle and Hope
The war has stolen peace from many Ukrainians. Some have not only lost their homes but have also suffered severe injuries.
“I, Viktoriia Volodymyrivna, live with my son Volodymyr, who is a first-degree disabled person. He was wounded while defending Ukraine. Life is hard, but we refuse to give up. Thank you to the foundation and all the sponsors for helping people survive in these trying times.”
Marina Mykolaivna, another resident of Merefa, shares:
“I live alone. My pension is tiny, and my needs are great. Your help is truly a lifesaver. Thank you, thank you so much! May God protect you!”
We understand that support is not just about food and supplies—it is about reminding people that they are not alone in their struggles.
Balakliia: Life Under Constant Threat
In frontline cities, the situation remains extremely difficult.
“Every night, the sky is filled with the sound of kamikaze drones, and air raid sirens never stop. People are frightened but continue to persevere. This week, thanks to the foundation, they received bread and food packages. This aid is invaluable under current conditions. Everyone is sincerely grateful!”
This once again proves that even the simplest things, like a loaf of bread, can be priceless.
Kharkiv, Kamianka Yaruha, Mala Danylivka: Supporting Children and Families
While Kharkiv remains relatively stable, the war still leaves its mark on daily life.
The weekend was filled with activities. Our team organized nearly eight events for children and teenagers. On Friday, we discussed the importance of each day, while on Saturday, children created “Heart Hugs” to remind themselves and others of the power of support. For teenagers, we held a session titled “Forgotten Wealth.”
We also arranged a charity lunch for everyone in need and distributed bread. In the evening, lively board games provided a small but much-needed distraction from reality.
Another highlight was a trip to the Kharkiv Zoo. The children were captivated by the stories about animals and later enjoyed pizza together, simply relishing the moment.
We were particularly moved by how well Kharkiv is organized for people with disabilities. Public transport is fully accessible, something that, unfortunately, not all cities in Ukraine can boast.
Viacheslav: A Simple but Vital Loaf of Bread
“I am 58 years old and disabled. I am deeply grateful for the bread I receive through your support. It helps me survive.”
His words are yet another reminder that our mission is crucial.
Each story reminds us that even small acts of kindness can change lives. We are grateful to everyone who supports our cause and continue working for those who need us most.
Dnipro Region
Nikopol: Aid That Saves Lives
In these difficult times, we continue our work for those who need it most. Our team overcomes daily challenges to assist people in frontline areas, delivering essentials such as food, water, and support.
Nikopol: Warm Clothes, Clean Water, and Support for the Disabled
This week, our team delivered another batch of clothing, bedding, blankets, and other necessities to Nikopol. All aid was immediately distributed at the local support center.
In addition, we continue to provide clean drinking water. With little government assistance available, the number of requests is growing, as only a few organizations in the city can distribute it.
We also provided mobility aids for disabled residents of Nikopol and the surrounding district.
We visited little David, whose story we have shared before. His family requires constant attention and support, so we brought him another package of essential supplies.
Special thanks to those who donated a heating gun for the aid center—it will be invaluable in the coming months.
Marhanets: Helping People with Vision Impairments
For seven months, we have been working to restore vision for the residents of Marhanets. We gradually cover different city districts, providing people with much-needed eyeglasses and consultations.
This week, we held another outreach event in a residential area. By the start of the event, 60 people had already gathered, with more arriving throughout the day.
Local authorities arranged a small refreshment table—an essential yet modest form of support for residents who have endured immense hardships.
Despite everything, we continue working, knowing how crucial our help is.
Our Contributions This Week:
- 3,000 liters of drinking water;
- 2 pairs of crutches with elbow support;
- 80 pairs of eyeglasses;
- 13 boxes of powdered milk;
- 4 boxes of rice;
- 500 kg of clothing through the “Social Wardrobe” program;
- A blanket and other necessities for little David.
Pavlohrad: Humanitarian Missions
The situation in the region remains tense.
Lidiia, an elderly woman from Pokrovsk, along with her grandson, received assistance in evacuating to a safe place. We also helped transport their personal belongings to give them a chance at a fresh start.
Alina Vasylivna, 74, a pensioner from Pavlohrad, expressed heartfelt gratitude:
“Without your help, we wouldn’t have made it. Thank you so much for your care!”
We continue to work tirelessly, knowing that every step we take brings people closer to a better life. Thank you to everyone who supports us in this mission!
Samara, Magdalynivka: Providing Aid to Displaced Persons
We carried out humanitarian missions to deliver essential supplies, including food packages (80 sets, totaling 600 kg), canned goods, grains (300 kg), second-hand clothing, and eyeglasses.
The aid was distributed to:
- Residents of collective centers for displaced persons;
- A volunteer center in Cherkaskе;
- Displaced persons in Magdalynivka and surrounding areas.
We continue our efforts, overcoming challenges, knowing that each step brings people closer to a better life. Our heartfelt gratitude goes to everyone who supports us in this mission!
Kryvyi Rih, Radushne, Sofiivka
Despite all difficulties, we remain committed to helping those who need it most. The past few days have been filled with humanitarian missions, aid transportation, food distribution, psychological support, and the organization of charitable initiatives.
Kryvyi Rih, Sofiivska OTG, Radushne: Assistance for Displaced and Vulnerable Populations
Our team has carried out a series of humanitarian trips to deliver essential goods. Our key areas of work include:
- Receiving humanitarian aid in Dnipro (food packages, clothing).
- Assisting residents of Sofiivska OTG (Novoyuliivka, Avdotivka, Sofiivka) through food distribution, bread deliveries, clothing donations, and massage therapy services.
- Delivering bread and food packages to Kryvyi Rih, Sofiivka, and Radushne.
- Operating a volunteer center in Kryvyi Rih, where we provided:
- Humanitarian and psychological support to 90 individuals;
- Hot meals for 60 people;
- Bread distribution to 100 beneficiaries.
In total, the delivered aid amounted to approximately 3,200 kg.
Radushne:
- Bread assistance for 40 displaced persons and socially vulnerable residents.
- The situation remains difficult: employment opportunities exist mainly in Kryvyi Rih, but transportation is costly and challenging.
- The local community expresses deep gratitude to the “Step with Hope” International Charitable Foundation for their unwavering support.
Sofiivska OTG:
- Bread distribution for 100 people.
- The region hosts many displaced persons, yet job opportunities are scarce. There are no major industries or medium-sized businesses, and traveling to Kryvyi Rih for work is both expensive and difficult.
- Despite the hardships, people persist and highly appreciate the foundation’s support.
Kamianske: Humanitarian Efforts and Support for Displaced Persons
Key areas of our work include:
- Transporting humanitarian aid from Dnipro.
- Bread distribution across the city.
- Running the children’s center “Smile.”
- Organizing charitable meal programs.
- Providing laundry services for displaced persons and socially vulnerable groups.
- Operating a massage therapy clinic.
- Conducting psychosocial programs.
- Supporting the creative initiative “Berehynia.”
Additionally, we delivered bread to the Department of Comprehensive Services and Reintegration for the Homeless.
“My name is Larysa Dmytrivna, I am 68 years old. I fled Avdiivka in September 2022 when heavy fighting began. Here, I rent an apartment, but surviving is extremely difficult. I am deeply grateful to the foundation and everyone who supports us in these challenging times.”
We remain steadfast in our mission to assist those in greatest need. Thank you to each and every one of you who supports our work!