Building Hope: Creating Safe Spaces for Ukrainians Seeking Refuge in Moldova
Published: Jun 2, 2023 Reading time: 2 minutesWe are supporting hundreds of Ukrainians who have sought temporary shelter in Moldova. Through our "PLACE" project, funded by the European Union, we create safe spaces for both children and adults fleeing Russia’s war on Ukraine. These centres serve as venues for meetings, events, social activities, and the provision of psychological support.
One notable space is the community centre we have established in Calarasovca, located in the Ocnita district near the Ukrainian border. A significant number of Ukrainians have found temporary refuge in this village. To cater to their needs, our partners from Clinica Juridica have formed a mobile team of experts, psychologists, and people working with children. This team regularly visits the community centres established under "PLACE", organizing activities for refugee children and their parents.
Helping children to deal with emotions
Drawing is the most popular activity among the children, and Anastasia assists them in expressing their emotions through these sessions. The children are encouraged to share their feelings, discuss what brings them joy, and explore how they can better integrate into Moldovan communities.
Their parents also need activities that provide a respite from their daily challenges and give them a sense of being heard and supported.
Through various activities, such as happiness workshops and emotion management training, we help adults overcome negative emotions and escape their daily routines.
Through our collective efforts, we strive to create a nurturing environment where refugees can rebuild their lives, find solace in their new community, and forge a more promising future. Together with the French organization ACTED, our local partners and the support of the European Union, we remain committed to making a positive difference in the lives of those seeking refuge in Moldova.