The situation in Kharkiv remains extremely difficult. Our neighbourhood is regularly coming under fire. The explosions and destruction are increasing. The children constantly hear sirens, witness the fear in adults, and see destroyed houses and the consequences of the war right around them. Many children live in a state of constant tension, fear, and uncertainty. Some can no longer sleep peacefully at night, are afraid to be alone, and are losing the ability to feel joy or trust the world. That is why our work has become not just helpful, but essential.

After particularly severe attacks, we often organise additional activities because the children are in a state of great fear and emotional distress. Through emergency pedagogy, creative activities, physical movement, play, and human warmth, we help them, step by step, to regain a sense of security, to express their feelings, and to be allowed to be children again. It is a great gift for us to see how, after participating in our programs, children smile again, sleep more peacefully at night, and are able to regain a sense of normal life—at least for a short time.

At present, we see several key needs particularly clearly: First, we need additional funding for our work at the hospital. Instead of the two hours originally planned, a shift now often lasts up to five hours across multiple departments simultaneously. Second, we see an enormous need for further training in emergency and trauma pedagogy for the staff of “Der Sichere Ort,” as well as for parents and interested professionals. Given the population’s ongoing traumatic experiences, this knowledge is becoming increasingly important. Furthermore, the schools with which we collaborated last year are urgently requesting that we continue our programs for the children. Teachers and parents report how crucial emotional support has become for children living under conditions of constant danger and uncertainty. Our needs have grown significantly because the number of children who need support is steadily rising, and the consequences of the war are being felt more and more deeply.

Once again, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your help. For us, it is a profound sign of humanity that gives us the strength to keep going.                       

Angelika Merzalova

This project is made possible thanks to financial support from Aktion Deutschland Hilft. If you like what we do at the Department of Emergency Pedagogy and would like to support our work, please click here: Help now