Olena had been living in fear because of domestic violence by her husband for many years. Beatings, constant threats, psychological pressure, and complete isolation from the outside world became her daily reality. The woman was afraid to seek help because her husband controlled her every step, took away her phone, and threatened to take her children away if she went to the police.
Being desperate, Olena and her two sons fled to their home village in the Kherson region. It was there that she turned to the mobile team of the NGO “Divchata” (“Girls”) for help. The woman was immediately provided with the first psychological support, as well as an internal referral to a case manager who helped Olena find a job in the village and begin to rebuild her life.
The family also received humanitarian aid through referrals to partner organizations, namely food, clothing for children, and hygiene products. Olena also received long-term psychological support, which helped her overcome her internal paralyzing fear and restore her faith in herself.
Thanks to the social worker of the mobile team of the NGO “Divchata”, the woman was referred to an international organization, where she received financial assistance and was enrolled in an ongoing food support program. In addition, through her interaction with the police, Olena received protection from her abuser and legal advice, including on inheritance issues.
Today, the woman lives in safety, feels confident, and plans to build a life free of violence. She thanked the team for making her feel like a free person again and giving her a chance for a new beginning. “I did not understand how to live with such fear and be safe with my children without your support,” says Olena.
Supporting women survivors of violence requires a holistic approach. When professionals join forces, there is a chance for protection, recovery, and a decent life.
The assistance is provided within the project “Strengthening Access and Service Provision for SRH Support and GBV Prevention among Conflict-Affected Women and Girls in Eastern and Southern Ukraine” in cooperation with the international humanitarian organization CARE, with the support of the German Federal Foreign Office.
