As part of the project “Winterization support for vulnerable people in frontline at-risk hromadas of Sumska oblast”, a registration for solid fuel distribution took place in the Putivl community. Among those who visited us was Vasyl Semenovych, a resident of one of the surrounding villages.
Mr. Vasyl is 68 years old. He has spent his entire life working in the fields and on machinery, taking care of his household, and preparing for the winter cold on his own. Usually, this included chopping firewood, maintaining his house, and tending to the garden.
This year, completing all the work became more difficult: an old back injury flared up, and his wife has been ill for a long time and cannot help. As a result, all household responsibilities fell solely on his shoulders.
“I can’t manage like I used to… The firewood is heavy, my back hurts, and my wife is sick. Everything falls on me: heating the house, taking care of her, and looking after the household. Sometimes it feels like I have no strength left…” — shares Vasyl Semenovych.
Funds to purchase ready-made fuel were limited, and the cold season was approaching. When he heard about the registration for solid fuel, Vasyl decided to come—not just for material support, but for the opportunity to ensure warmth for himself and his wife.
“But you can’t give up—otherwise, winter will come, and we’ll freeze. I am very grateful for this help; it at least makes life a little easier,” — he adds with a slight smile.
After completing the registration, Vasyl quietly said:
“Winter won’t manage itself. Thank you for helping those who can no longer cope on their own.”
The aim of this initiative is to support people who find themselves in difficult life circumstances, provide basic needs during the cold season, and give a sense of security to those living in frontline communities.
The project is funded by the Ukraine Humanitarian Fund and implemented by Stabilization Support Services (SSS) in cooperation with the Polish Humanitarian Action (PAH).