“I was born during a war and lived to see another one”

Nina Pavlovna lives in a settlement in the Pokrovsk district of Donetsk region, a few kilometers from the front line. Born in 1941 during World War II, she is experiencing hostilities in her native region for the second time. The woman worked as a teacher all her life and is now retired.

“I was born during a war, and it pains me that I’ve lived to see another one. To keep myself grounded, I write poetry. It helps me cope when I feel lonely,” shares Nina Pavlovna.

She lives alone, without family. Her only support is a former student who told her about a multi-purpose cash assistance program implemented by the NGO “Responsible Citizens” with support from Mercy Corps and funding from the UK government.

“I live alone. I have no children, siblings, or husband. I don’t use the internet; my phone is a basic one. If it weren’t for my student, I wouldn’t have known about the assistance. She advised me and registered me,” says Nina Pavlovna.

After her application was approved, the organization’s operators contacted her and invited her for in-person registration in a neighboring village. Due to poor eyesight and hearing, she was worried about completing the process. She also doubted whether the aid was real and was concerned about transportation costs.

“I was anxious that I wouldn’t be able to complete the registration. But the staff were very attentive, explained everything clearly, and didn’t rush me. That was important to me,” she notes.

Within two weeks, Nina Pavlovna received the payment. She used the funds for trips to medical facilities in Dobropillya, examinations, and medicines, as the necessary services are unavailable in her settlement.

This story is an example of how even in the most remote communities, people can receive timely support thanks to the effective work of humanitarian organizations and the donor community.