Author:
Yuliia Didenko
The first space by the Voices of Children Foundation in a hub format has opened in Truskavets, Lviv region. We created it as a resource center for the local community, as well as a space for running the Foundation programs and training professionals.
On June 1, we held a significant event in the newly renovated hub—with traditional spring games (haivky) by the folk group Draga, face painting for children done by teens who regularly attend the hub, and dancing. The feedback and smiles reminded us how important it is to create spaces where children can feel joy and share it with others—even during wartime.
The building housing the hub is part of the large campus of the local Center for Children and Youth Creativity. It also includes a concert hall, a circus studio, and various activity clubs. The local authorities leased one of the premises to the Voices of Children Foundation so the organization could support children and their families together with the community.
What Makes the Inclusive Hub for Children in Truskavets Special, and How Does It Work?
The updated space in Truskavets is, above all, a place for creativity, support, and communication for children—without rigid rules or restrictions. The hub provides what psychologists call a “third place” for children—a comfortable and safe environment outside of the home (the “first place”) and school (the “second”) where they can be themselves, make friends, freely communicate, engage in cultural activities, and relax. And, when needed, receive help from qualified psychologists.
If we have the opportunity, we always attend activities. The girls who organize everything are very open and kind to the children. And the kids are always excited to come here. It’s very important that they’re adapting here—this is the kind of socialization we’re missing because of the war and forced relocation,
The Foundation’s team is working to make the space accessible and comfortable. With support from donors, we’ve completed major renovations, purchased comfortable furniture, and equipped the entrance, restroom, and stage with ramps. Soon, we’ll also add relaxation areas: benches, tables, and a sandbox for children and families.
We don’t often take part in big events—since we’re not in kindergarten or school. But we’re always happy to come here,
What Are the Hub’s Key Focus Areas in Truskavets?
The Foundation’s team has outlined a clear development strategy for the hub with three primary missions:
- The first mission is expert, high-quality, professional psychological support. The Foundation’s specialists will continue to work here with children and their families and provide training for community professionals who work with children.
- The second mission is to run the Foundation’s programs and training sessions. The hub will host art labs, music therapy, art therapy, psychoeducation, retreats, strategic sessions, supervision meetings, and educational projects on topics such as bullying, rehabilitation, support for mothers, and working with children with ASD.
- The third mission is community support and cooperation. Other organizations will also be able to use the hub. It will serve as a space for joint projects with schools, youth centers, scouting groups, and activity clubs.
Our mission remains the same—to be there for children who have lost their sense of safety because of the war. And this hub is an essential new step in supporting and strengthening the local community.
We started working in Truskavets from the very first days of Russia’s full-scale invasion and continue to this day. Back then, schools housed evacuees from Kyiv, Kharkiv, Chernihiv, children from Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, and nearby areas. And sadly, there’s more to come. I’m grateful that we have the capacity to tirelessly, consistently, day after day, be there for children. And my team and I are already making new plans,
Children and parents can sign up for free individual psychological consultations, group therapy sessions, and workshops at our hub.
In addition to Truskavets, we continue to operate in other regions of Ukraine and are even building a large rehabilitation center for children and parents affected by the war.
Have an idea or want to be part of the change? Please write to us at [email protected] or support the Foundation with a donation.
In addition to Truskavets, we continue to operate in other regions of Ukraine and are even building a large rehabilitation center for children and parents affected by the war.
Have an idea or want to be part of the change? Please write to us at [email protected] or support the Foundation with a donation.
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