In frontline communities, support for people begins with genuine care. It is this care that becomes the foundation for effective cooperation between local self-government bodies and non-governmental organizations. The village of Volokytyne is a clear example of how such cooperation turns into real, tangible assistance for residents.
The community learned about the project “Winterization support for vulnerable people in frontline at-risk hromadas of Sumy oblast” through the Regional Administration. According to Olha Andriivna, the starosta of Volokytyne, there was hardly any doubt about whether to take part.
“When we were told about the project, I immediately thought about our people. We have small villages, many elderly residents, families with very limited incomes. For them, any kind of support is a great relief. That’s why we submitted the application quickly — we knew this was truly needed by our community,” says Ms. Olha.
Preparation began back in the summer. Registration of residents in need of assistance started in four villages of the community. In total, about 150 people were included on the lists.
“We tried not to miss anyone. People came, asked questions, shared their worries. For many, it wasn’t just about registering — it was important to speak out and feel heard. I could see how anxious they were about the winter, and it really touched me,” the starosta recalls.
In the autumn, our organization’s team arrived directly in the community to carry out on-site registration of participants for targeted cash assistance and fuel briquettes. According to Olha Andriivna, this approach became a significant support for residents.
“It means a lot to our people that help comes directly here, to the village. There’s no need to travel anywhere, look for transport, or worry. People come and see that they are treated with respect, everything is explained calmly, and they are supported. That is extremely valuable,” she says.
The starosta emphasizes that cooperation with the non-governmental organization was simple and clear.
“For me, as someone working on the ground, it’s very easy to cooperate with you. Everything is well organized, without unnecessary paperwork or stress. When there’s less bureaucracy, you can devote more time to people — talk to them, guide them, reassure them,” Ms. Olha shares.
She adds that she always tries to be personally present during the registration process.
“I can’t just hand over the lists and walk away. This is my community, and I care about every single person. Someone needs help with documents, someone needs things explained one more time, and someone just needs a kind word. People really lack that right now,” says the starosta.
For Ms. Olha, this cooperation is first and foremost an opportunity to support her people during a difficult time.
“When you see the eyes of people who realize they are not alone, that someone cares about them, it gives you the strength to keep going. I am sincerely grateful that, under these circumstances, we can work together to support our community and make this difficult winter a little easier for our people,” she concludes.
The project is funded by the Ukraine Humanitarian Fund and implemented by Stabilization Support Services (SSS) in cooperation with the Polish Humanitarian Action (PAH).