Hanna is 36 years old. In February 2022, she and her family were forced to leave their hometown of Popasna due to Russia's full-scale invasion. They were lucky, because a place became available in a modular town in Dnipro, which has existed since 2014, and the family received a small house. At first, Hanna still believed that her return home would be soon, but over time, it became clear that it was useless to wait. So the family decided to build a new life in Dnipro.
Together with her husband, son Sashko, and grandmother, Hanna began to rebuild their lives. The first months were especially difficult because Hanna's brother and his girlfriend, and her twin brother, were also living in the small modular house. The constant cramped conditions and a lack of personal space were exhausting. Eventually, the relatives moved away, and Hanna's family stayed in Dnipro.
In 2024, she learned about the “Girls. Children” club from her neighbors. In a chat among the residents of the building, she came across an announcement about children's classes and was immediately interested. Her son, Sashko, who was 9 years old at the time, was sorely lacking friends. After the move, he lost his usual social circle as his friends had moved away, and new friends were difficult for him to make. Hanna realized that in order to adapt, her son needed a space where he could feel safe, make friends, and feel accepted.
The family's acquaintance with the children's space began with acting classes, creative workshops, and board games. After the first visits, Hanna noticed changes as Sasha became calmer, more attentive, and more balanced. The children were drawn to him. The boy became friends with one girl in particular and always hurried to classes, knowing that she would be there.
"Sashko has learned to socialize here. Both children and teachers are happy to see him. They communicate with him and respond with smiles. This gives my son self-confidence," says Hanna.
Today, Sasha attends not only group classes, but also receives individual support from a psychologist. This is extremely important for him, because the experience of communicating with his peers was rather painful for him before. Now his anxiety level has decreased significantly, and his self-confidence has increased.
Hanna also found space for herself at the “Girls. Children” club. While her son is studying, she can relax in a cozy room away from the rhythm of the big city. She is especially inspired by art therapy groups for women. Together with a psychologist, they draw, create, and look for internal resources, support, and new ways to overcome difficulties. This is not only a rest, but also an important way to self-awareness for Hanna.
Both IDP women and local residents attend the classes. This creates a bridge between those who were forced to leave their homes and the community that has accepted them. The participants gradually integrate, learn more about the city's opportunities, and feel their importance in its development. This experience not only strengthens social cohesion but also helps to improve their psycho-emotional state and mental health.
The activities of the “Girls. Children” club in Dnipro are made possible by the generous support of the American people through the US Government. The contents are the responsibility of ACTED / NGO Girls and do not necessarily reflect the views of the United States Government.
This story covers aid activities undertaken with the financial support of the US Government. The views expressed herein should not be taken, in any way, to reflect the official opinion of the United States Government, who is not responsible for any use that may be made of the information it contains.
Photo: NGO Girls. Sasha and his mom at a class at the “Girls. Children” club in Dnipro.
