From Care to Dignity: How Caritas-Spes Supports People Who Are Bedridden

In September, within the framework of the Emergency Appeal project, 100 specialized hygiene kits were distributed to people who are bedridden and require special care. Diapers and specialized hygiene supplies were provided in areas close to the combat zone through Caritas-Spes centers in Bilozerka, Kharkiv, Sumy, and Nikopol.

Mrs. Olena, a resident of the village of Prymiske in the Nikopol district of Dnipropetrovsk region, is among those who received assistance. For 40 years, she worked devotedly on a farm, caring for livestock, while her husband worked as a driver. Together they raised three children. Mrs. Olena was very hardworking, never sitting still for a moment, loved her work, and was always ready to help others.

Today, Mrs. Olena is 77 years old. She has survived two strokes. The beginning of the full-scale invasion, her son’s decision to volunteer to defend Ukraine, and the heavy shelling of the Nikopol region by Russian forces all deeply affected her. As a result, she experienced a second stroke, after which she lost her vision and ability to walk. She is now cared for by her daughter and son-in-law.

When the staff of Caritas-Spes Nikopol brought her the hygiene kit, they also listened, offered support, and showed solidarity with the family. To help make life a little easier for Mrs. Olena and her relatives, they provided a wheelchair. “It is very difficult, but thanks to caring people and organizations that help with food and hygiene items, it has become a little easier. And now, thanks to Caritas-Spes Ukraine, we have a wheelchair and the opportunity to take our mother outside for walks in the fresh air,” Mrs. Olena’s daughter shared.

We are grateful to all benefactors within the Caritas Internationalis Confederation, whose support enables us to provide assistance and improve people’s quality of life.