Together with our partners, we renovated three kindergartens and two schools in Chernihiv, Ukraine.
Imagine a city where children's laughter has been replaced by the sound of rocket attacks. This is what Chernihiv, Ukraine, looked like during the conflict. Schools and kindergartens that should have been full of life were left in ruins, with broken windows, damaged roofs and cold classrooms.
Today, however, the situation is different. Together with our partners, we have decided to give children back their place to learn - safe, cosy and ready for the future. Within the framework of the „Humanitarian Aid for Chernihiv Region“ project, in four months we have accomplished something that seemed impossible - we have repaired three kindergartens and two vocational schools, replaced more than 1,000 m² of windows and 1,000 m² of roofing, and helped to create spaces that will save energy and costs in the long term.
Each school has its own story. Kindergarten No. 69 „Stromoček“ was in a critical condition - windows were broken, doors destroyed. When we replaced them, the classrooms were once again filled with safety and warmth. The headmistress Lyubov Yankushevich was happy to tell us: „For the safety of the children and to save energy, the windows and external doors had to be replaced first and foremost. We are very grateful for this help.“
Kindergarten No. 59 „Biločka“ was another challenge. In addition to new windows and doors, we renovated the floor in the music centre and equipped the school kitchen. Young children can also enjoy the new furniture in the playrooms.
We faced extensive damage at Chernihiv Higher Vocational School. The roof over the canteen, gymnasium and assembly halls was almost destroyed. We repaired more than 1000 m² of the roof so that the students could use these premises again. In addition, we did not forget about their safety - we equipped the missile shelter with chairs, sleeping bags and portable washbasins.
However, it was not just about reconstruction. Our goal was to create conditions where children can dream, learn and prepare for a better future. Everything we did had a clear goal: to give children back their happiness and the opportunity to learn.
When we walk through Chernihiv today, we see more than just renovated buildings. We see children playing again, teachers teaching again, and communities believing in the future again. And that is the greatest reward we could receive for our work.
This project would not have been possible without the support of the Open Society Foundation, the Pontis Foundation and the Taipei Representative Office in Slovakia. Together we have shown that solidarity knows no borders.
Thank you!
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