Kharkiv, Ukraine — While the war in Ukraine rages on, with millions still displaced and cities like Kharkiv rebuilding amid air raid sirens and anxiety, one humanitarian beacon continues to shine with steadfast resolve: Chervona Kalyna Kharkiv, a local charitable foundation that, this May, once again showed what grassroots power truly means.
Legal Aid, Warm Meals, and Human Dignity
On May 29, Chervona Kalyna Kharkiv, in partnership with Caritas Kharkiv, hosted a free legal clinic for internally displaced persons (IDPs) from the Dvorichna community in the Kupiansk district. Experienced lawyers provided hands-on assistance with issues including:
-
Social benefits registration
-
Property damage claims
-
Inheritance disputes
-
Access to healthcare services
-
And dozens of daily legal concerns
For families who fled war zones with only the clothes on their backs, this wasn’t just a consultation — it was empowerment.
Celebrating the Human Side of Heroism
May 28 was not just another day at the foundation. It marked the birthday of Liza Rakohon, one of the foundation’s most beloved volunteers. A retired cook, “Mama Liza” has become a legend among Ukrainian soldiers and displaced families. Her name is synonymous with warmth, dedication, and home-cooked compassion.
“Every dumpling she makes carries the strength of a thousand prayers,” said a fellow volunteer.
The celebration included poetry by TV host and journalist Tatyana Babina, and heartfelt messages from the foundation’s leadership.
Soup Kitchens and Sacred Spaces
On May 25, the foundation’s mobile “Kitchen of Kindness” set up outside St. Peter and Paul Church in Kharkiv, distributing hearty field porridge, pastries, and fruit drinks to dozens of vulnerable locals. Amid the aroma of hot food and blooming May air, faith and charity interwove like never before.
“You gave us warmth when there was none,” said one elderly woman, holding a cup of uzvar with tears in her eyes.
Economic Integration of the Displaced
Throughout May, the foundation deepened its collaboration with the Kharkiv Regional Employment Center, enabling displaced Ukrainians to participate in publicly beneficial work—from cooking and cleaning to weaving camouflage nets for the army.
On May 6, a strategic meeting between the foundation and the employment center leadership paved the way for hundreds of IDPs to regain purpose and structure in their lives.
Global Partnerships in Action
The foundation’s reach isn’t limited to local initiatives. In early May, Samaritan’s Purse donated food kits for IDPs, while Food Bank Ukraine contributed gift sweets for seniors and people with disabilities.
These acts of solidarity speak volumes — not only about Ukraine’s inner strength, but also about the international community’s role in rebuilding hope.
Art and Mental Health
On May 7, the foundation hosted an art therapy session for displaced children, moderated by psychologist Lyudmyla Breslavets. Using drawing, storytelling, and play, children processed their trauma and were gently guided toward resilience.
In a nation where over 1.5 million children have been displaced, such sessions are more than recreational — they are a lifeline.
Gratitude as a Force Multiplier
In addition to feeding, sheltering, and counseling hundreds, Chervona Kalyna Kharkiv honored partners like “Zorya Miloserdiya”, praised volunteers like Antonina Chernykh, and recognized supporters from the village of Baranove, who donated fresh vegetables, preserves, and home-raised eggs.
Final Word: A Ukrainian Model for Resilience
May 2025 will be remembered not only for the heartbreak of war, but for the quiet, determined love that defines Ukraine’s civil society. Chervona Kalyna Kharkiv remains a leading symbol of that spirit — showing the world that compassion, when organized, is one of the most powerful forces on Earth.
💬 “Together, we are strong.”
