Psychological Support and Cash Assistance: The Story of Maria’s Family from Velykyi Bobryk

Maria lives in the village of Velykyi Bobryk in the Sumy region together with her 11-year-old son Kyrylo. The boy studies remotely — he cannot move independently. All daily care for the child lies with his mother, so she does not have the opportunity to work. The only income of the family is the husband’s earnings.
Maria says that her son really likes to study. A teacher’s assistant comes to Kyrylo’s home and helps with classes. At the same time, recent years have become difficult for the whole family — not only because of household difficulties, but also because of constant emotional tension.
“First the pandemic, then the full-scale war. The child lacks stability, a sense of normal life. And I realized that I myself really need support in order to have the strength to overcome all the difficulties,” says Maria.
The woman learned about the possibility of receiving psychological support through the school where her son studies. The first step was group sessions with psychologists.
“It was very important for me. I was able to distract myself, communicate, and be among people in a safe and trusting atmosphere. The classes took place in a shelter, and this also gave a sense of protection. We really needed such communication with specialists — with those who understand how to provide support,” Maria says.
It was during the classes that the organization’s specialists informed the family about the possibility of receiving cash assistance. Registration went quickly, and the family received the funds without delay — to cover the most urgent needs.
The family directed the received assistance to the most necessary things: rehabilitation classes for Kyrylo, medicines, and food products. Part of the money was used to prepare for the New Year holidays and bring joy to the child.
“We were able to register our son for the necessary rehabilitation classes, buy medicines and food. And even prepare a little holiday for the child. I am very grateful for this support. It gives back hope — our life really became a little easier,” Maria shares.
The family has been living in Velykyi Bobryk only since 2024. They had to move here from the village of Osoiivka in the Krasnopillia district after their house burned down as a result of a tragic accident. The loss of housing practically cut off the way back, so the family had to arrange their life in a new place without alternatives. Today, returning to Osoiivka remains impossible also for security reasons — the community has already announced the forced evacuation of the population.
All support for Maria’s family was provided by Responsible Citizens NGO in partnership with JERU — Joint Emergency Response in Ukraine (a joint initiative of the international organizations Welthungerhilfe and Concern Worldwide) funded by the Federal Foreign Office of Germany (AA).