Ukrainian impaired children need your support!

Dear friends,

As winter slowly begins to fade and we approach the promise of spring, we take a moment to reflect on the past months and the challenges they brought. At Dzherelo Centre, we understood the importance of being fully prepared to meet the harsh realities of the season, ensuring that those who depend on our support could face winter with confidence and security.

Anticipating the difficulties that come with cold weather and the risks of power outages, we took extensive measures to safeguard our ability to provide uninterrupted assistance. In preparation for possible disruptions, we ensured that our Centre was well-stocked with essential supplies, including food, water, diesel fuel, flashlights, and batteries. These provisions were crucial in allowing us to continue our work despite unpredictable conditions. Families who turn to Dzherelo for help place their trust in us, knowing that we will stand by them no matter the circumstances.

While we braced ourselves for a season of potential hardships, we are grateful that, thanks to the efforts of our defenders in the Armed Forces of Ukraine, there were no devastating attacks by the russians on the country’s energy infrastructure this winter. Moreover, nature itself seemed to grant us some reprieve, sparing us from extreme cold that could have further strained vital systems. Though we did experience power outages, they were not as prolonged or severe as we had feared. This has been a profound relief, allowing us to continue our work with fewer disruptions.

Throughout the winter months, we remained steadfast in our commitment to those who rely on our services. Beyond providing material support, we offered a sense of stability and reassurance to families navigating these difficult times. Dzherelo has always been more than just a centre — it is a place of refuge, care, and understanding. We continue to stand as a pillar of support, offering both practical aid and emotional strength to those who need it most.

As we look ahead, we remain unwavering in our mission. The resilience and determination of our community inspire us every day, reinforcing our belief in the power of solidarity and compassion. We extend our deepest gratitude to all who stand with us, making it possible for us to provide hope and security to those in need. Together, we move forward, strengthened by our shared commitment to a better future.

Let’s stick together!

Dear friends,

We write to you as the autumn cold begins, with October upon us and winter fast approaching. At Dzherelo Centre, we are intensifying our preparations for the challenges that this season inevitably brings, considering potential power outages and severe frosts. Ukraine continues to face the hardships of war, and with winter nearing, the issue of energy resources becomes ever more pressing. We must be ready to face these difficulties so that we can continue supporting children with developmental disabilities and other vulnerable people who rely on our services.

Since our last update, we have continued our efforts thanks to your ongoing support. The war hasn’t stopped, but neither has our commitment to our mission. Since February, our project on the GlobalGiving platform, "Ukrainian impaired children need your support!", has raised $943 USD. These funds have played a vital role in strengthening crisis programs for children with developmental disabilities. We operate in western regions of Ukraine, and over the past three months, we have been able to support over 1,000 children and their families. Each family we assist has received humanitarian packages tailored to their needs, including food, hygiene products, medicines, and other essentials. Part of these individual packages were purchased thanks to funds raised through GlobalGiving. However, as winter approaches, their needs will only increase, and we must be ready.

Here is an update on how Dzherelo’s team is working during the war.

Despite all the difficulties, Dzherelo Centre continues to tirelessly support vulnerable populations. Among our beneficiaries are children and youth with disabilities, orphans, large families, the homeless, survivors of domestic violence, and those in challenging life circumstances. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of our team and the ongoing support of our partners, we continue not only to provide help but also to expand our capacity.

The Centre for Assistive Technologies provides monthly support to children with disabilities, offering essential equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, and communication devices. Our Contact Centre handles requests from families in need of food, hygiene supplies, and social services.

This brutal war has left ruins in its wake, forcing families to flee danger and seek refuge in western Ukraine. Every day, Dzherelo welcomes children with severe developmental disabilities, ensuring they receive professional care. We have set up basement shelters where children and youth can take cover during air raid alarms. However, due to constant shelling, we often face power, water, and communication outages. Despite these challenges, we remain committed to our mission.

We understand the need to be prepared for another harsh winter with possible extended power outages. The main Dzherelo Centre building, over 6,000 square meters in size, has a basement that serves as a full-fledged shelter during missile attacks. This allows us to continue our work and ensure the safety of children and their parents. In winter, Dzherelo will become a crucial support hub for families with children with disabilities.

We sincerely thank you for your unwavering support, which allows us to keep helping those who need it most. Thanks to your solidarity and care, we can continue to support hundreds of children and families during these difficult times, bringing them hope and belief in a better future. Together, we can overcome all obstacles, keeping warmth in our hearts and unshakable faith in Ukraine. Thank you for standing with us!

Let’s keep moving forward with faith and hope.