Aid that changed the life of a family from Druzhkivka: Arina’s story
Arina from Druzhkivka, Donetsk region, shares her story of how the financial assistance provided by the NGO “Responsible Citizens” became a lifesaving solution for her family.
With the onset of the full-scale war in February 2022, Arina and her family found themselves on the verge of survival. Constant fear due to the approaching frontline, destruction of infrastructure, loss of employment, and lack of economic opportunities turned daily life into a struggle. The family tried to find temporary jobs to cover their basic needs, but stable support was lacking.
After learning about the opportunity to receive financial aid, Arina applied for the program. “I was very anxious because we are not internally displaced persons, although we suffered from the war,” she recalls. However, from the very first moments of contacting the organization, she felt genuine support. During the registration process, everything was explained in detail, her questions were answered, and she was reassured that her family would not be left alone.
“I felt a deep respect for people and their dignity. In such challenging circumstances, every word matters,” Arina shares. The money her family received was used to cover urgent needs and to prepare for evacuation due to constant shelling. “We understand that leaving the city is no longer a choice but a necessity.”
For Arina, the aid became not only a financial lifeline but also a source of moral support. “Seeing how the team continues to work despite the risks was important for us. It truly restores faith in people who are willing to risk their own safety to help others,” she concludes.
The project “Local, Inclusive, and Comprehensive Emergency Assistance for People Affected by the War in Ukraine (LIVES) 3.0,” implemented by the NGO “Responsible Citizens” in partnership with Mercy Corps, is helping thousands of families affected by the war with the support of the UK government.
Більше новин
-
Every child deserves warmth, care, and attentionOn the occasion of World Orphans’ Day, the team of the NGO Responsible Citizens, together with the Department of Health, organized an event at the Zaporizhzhia Children’s City Hospital.
-
Responsible Citizens develop Operational Plan for the 2025–2027 StrategyNGO Responsible Citizens held a facilitated session to develop the operational plan for its new Strategy for 2025–2027.
-
A new wave of assistance continues at the Pavlohrad transit centerThis assistance is part of the project “Local, Inclusive and Multi-Sectoral Emergency Assistance to Conflict-Affected Population in Ukraine” implemented by Responsible Citizens in partnership with Mercy Corps Ukraine and funded by the UK Government.
-
April 4 — International day for mine awareness and assistance in mine actionResponsible Citizens NGO works systematically to ensure that mine risk education is accessible to everyone — especially to children and families living in frontline areas. We firmly believe: knowledge saves lives. And although awareness is growing, the risks remain high. That’s why we go beyond Mine Risk Awareness Week — our activities take place year-round.
-
Project manager at “Responsible Citizens” NGO receives International Award for Cultural DiplomacyThe award was initiated by the NGO "Grants, Ratings and Nominations" in collaboration with an expert council. It honors individuals and organizations that foster international dialogue and promote a positive image of Ukraine abroad.
-
How to overcome educational challenges: actions of the expert groupThe NGO "Responsible Citizens" has taken another decisive step in supporting Ukrainian education. The second meeting of the expert working group of educators, organized by our organization, launched the development of innovative methodological recommendations to address educational losses accumulated over three years of war.
-
How training becomes the start of change: the story of Iryna from Dnipropetrovsk regionIryna from Kryvyi Rih has been connected to art her entire life. Teaching painting and helping people through creativity is her true calling. For over 30 years, she has been teaching others to see the world through colors, lines, and images. Today, she works at a music school in her hometown, but more and more often, she feels the need to grow, move forward, and discover new opportunities.
-
Empowering Communities: NGO ‘Responsible Citizens’ and World Vision International Educate Over 15,000 in UkraineThis project by the NGO "Responsible Citizens" was conducted in partnership with World Vision International. It became part of a comprehensive educational program for residents of Donetsk, Dnipropetrovsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kharkiv regions.