For most young people, the end of summer means preparing for a new school year, reaching a new milestone, and getting one step closer to independence. But for kids in Ukraine, school is a luxury they’re no longer afforded. An estimated 4.6 million kids in Ukraine are unable to consistently access education programs. For kids under governmental guardianship, child welfare workers are stepping in to try to bridge the gap.
At the Kidsave Miracles Center, Pavlo Shulha and his team work to provide a safe space for older kids and teens without families, giving them the opportunity to rest and receive therapeutic services. This summer, the team developed a series of trainings, educational sessions, and workshops designed to help older kids and teens learn valuable life skills and prepare them for independent living. The workshops included team building, leadership development, cooking classes, and career counseling, including outings to local businesses to learn more about different professions.
This week, the teenagers were treated to a road safety program where they learned about local traffic laws, how to identify different road signs, and the basic mechanics of a car. In the future, they will have the opportunity to practice basic driving skills in a safe, supervised environment.
“These are experiences that children growing up in institutional care would rarely, if ever, receive,” said Pavlo. “Every day, the kids enthusiastically embrace new learning opportunities and continue building the knowledge and practical skills they will need for the future. We believe that the time, care, and dedication invested by our team will stay with them for years to come, helping them build confident, independent, and successful adult lives.”
Learn more about the Kidsave Miracles Center and give your support.
