The crisis in Ukraine is dire as attacks have intensified, with infrastructure being targeted at levels not seen since the start of the war. Fellowship partners in the capital city of Kyiv have reported that bridges have been bombed, power outages are frequent, and even the water supply has been disrupted. Air-raid sirens sound throughout much of the day, while power stations, warehouses, and other infrastructure are targeted at night. Large protective nets have been installed to prevent debris from scattering, and movement is heavily restricted during air-raid alerts.
These conditions have a profound impact on Kyiv’s most vulnerable residents—children, some as young as two years old. For schoolchildren and those attending daycare, this is an especially difficult time. During prolonged air-raid alerts, they must remain in shelters, where they eat, drink, and sleep as best they can. Rather than spending just a few hours in these shelters, they often must remain inside for several consecutive days.
Despite the challenges and fear, these children are doing their best to carry on with their daily lives. The shelters are furnished like classrooms so they can continue their schoolwork and interact with one another. Toddlers take naps on blankets and mats, while some children have even celebrated their birthdays inside the shelters.
The Fellowship continues to support vulnerable children in Kyiv amid the ongoing crisis. One such project is a Fellowship-supported orphanage, where our assistance helped children begin the school year despite the difficult circumstances. Children should be able to focus on learning, growing, and enjoying their childhood rather than worrying about their safety at school.
“Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him” (Psalm 127:3).