A working meeting was held in the Chuhuiv community with representatives of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and participants of the "Better Care for Every Child" project, during which the results of the implementation of important social initiatives in the community were summarized.
The project "Strengthening Alternative Care through Support for Better Care Reform in the Kharkiv Region" has been implemented in the Chuhuyiv Community since September 2024 by the Charitable Organization "Charitable Fund "Volunteers: Adults-to-Children" in cooperation with the Children's Service of the Kharkiv Regional State Administration and the Kharkiv Regional Center for Social Services with the support of the Government of Ireland and the German Development Bank KFW. Due to effective interaction and positive results, the project was extended until March 2026.
During the meeting, it was noted that one of the key areas of work was strengthening the system of social services for children and families who find themselves in difficult life circumstances. A mapping of social services was carried out in the community, the needs of residents were analyzed, and areas for developing support for families with children were identified.
Particular attention is paid to the work of the Center for Resilience at the Center for Social Services of the Chuguiv City Council. With the support of UNICEF, comprehensive psychosocial assistance to families, children and war veterans continues here. In 2025 alone, specialists conducted 678 group events - psychological trainings, art therapy, creative and supportive classes for children and adults. In addition, a mobile psychosocial support team operates in all settlements of the community.
An important result of the cooperation was the introduction of new social services. In particular, the Chuguiv City Center for Social and Psychological Rehabilitation of Children launched the "Children's Day Space", where children from families affected by the war or in difficult life circumstances can receive psychosocial support and a safe space for development.
The Center for Comprehensive Rehabilitation of Children with Disabilities "SHANS" has introduced early intervention and day care services for children with disabilities. For this purpose, specialized premises have been equipped, necessary equipment has been purchased, and additional full-time specialist positions have been introduced.
Separately, during the meeting, they emphasized the support of alternative families and families in difficult life circumstances. In 2025, such families received financial assistance totaling over 800 thousand hryvnias. Additional educational classes with tutors and a speech therapist were also organized for children, and families had the opportunity to receive consultations from psychologists.
UNICEF representatives noted the openness of the Chuhuiv community to the implementation of modern social practices, the high level of interaction between services, and the desire to create a safe and supportive environment for every child. According to them, this attitude towards cooperation with the United Nations Children's Fund will definitely contribute to its continuation.
For her part, Deputy Mayor and Executive Committee Manager Lyudmila Makarenko noted that even in times of war, the community will continue to systematically work on the development of social protection for children and families, because caring for childhood remains one of its main priorities.