Fleeing the threat of war to protect her child, Olena (name changed) arrived in Lutsk at the beginning of the full-scale invasion in 2022. For the 26-year-old woman with a 4-year-old daughter in her arms, starting a new life in an unfamiliar city was difficult — she didn’t know where to turn for help or where to find support.
Olena’s daughter has health issues and requires special care. Most of the family’s income goes toward rent, utilities, and the child’s treatment.
Through social media, Olena learned about the case management services at Caritas-Spes Lutsk and decided to reach out. Her daughter began attending sessions with a speech therapist in the children’s space and also received a kit with children’s food and hygiene supplies. Olena was referred to a psychologist, who helped her find inner strength, reduce her anxiety, and regain self-confidence.
The family also received financial assistance, which eased the burden on their household budget.The support covered the daughter’s medical expenses and food, allowing them to save money forthe following month.
Olena is grateful to our staff not only for the financial assistance but also for the sense of stability, care, and human connection that she so desperately needed at that time. We are sincerely thankful to our partners at Caritas Österreich, NACHBAR IN NOT, Caritas Schweiz, and Caritas Zagrebačke Nadbiskupije for making this vital project possible — a project aimed at supporting and helping Ukrainians through these difficult times.