The Lozuvatka Hub in the Dnipropetrovsk region has become a place where the community gathers not only for events but also for communication, creativity, and mutual support. At a time when the war has disrupted the familiar rhythm of life, such spaces take on special significance — they help people feel part of a community and find the strength to keep moving forward.
Today, the hub is a space where different generations, interests, and stories coexist. It hosts rehearsals of a theater group for teenagers, creative workshops for children, board game evenings for adults, and many other activities that bring community members together.
In the “Creative Workshop” club, children create their own pieces, draw, and experiment with materials and colors. For many of them, these sessions are an opportunity to express their emotions, make new friends, and experience the joy of creativity.
“When you see children working with focus, imagining, and enjoying the results, you realize how important it is to give them such opportunities during such a difficult time,” says hub coordinator Yuliia Valetska.
An equally important part of the hub’s life is the theater group for teenagers. During rehearsals, participants not only learn acting skills but also work on self-confidence, the ability to express their thoughts, and teamwork.
“Theater helps teenagers talk about what worries them, find their voice, and feel supported. For them, it’s not just regular rehearsals — it’s a way to be heard,” notes Yuliia Valetska.
Board game evenings at the Lozuvatka Hub bring together adult members of the community. Here, people meet, talk, joke, and simply spend time together.
“Sometimes people just need to sit next to each other, talk, and feel that they are not alone. Board games create exactly this kind of atmosphere — lively, warm, and sincere,” the coordinator adds.
Due to constant shelling and infrastructure damage, the hub currently has no heating. At times, visitors have to sit in their outerwear, keeping warm with tea and warm conversations.
“Yes, sometimes we feel cold physically, but we are definitely not cold inside. Despite all the difficulties, we continue to work because we understand how much people need this space,” says Yuliia Valetska.
The Lozuvatka Hub proves that even in the most challenging conditions, it is possible to create places where trust and a sense of unity are born. Here, creativity, theater, and simple human gatherings become tools for community recovery.
The Strengthening Resilience and Protection of Conflict-Affected Individuals, Communities, and Systems in Central and Eastern Ukraine project is implemented by the Charity Foundation “Stabilization Support Services” in cooperation with the international humanitarian organization CARE and with the support of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development.