‍

Barvinkove is one of the frontline communities in the Kharkiv region that continues to face the consequences of the war. Despite the challenging security situation, families with children continue to live here. For them, it is especially important to have a place where they can feel supported, communicate with their peers, develop, and, at least for a few hours, return to a sense of normal childhood.

That is why a safe space for children operates here, run by the Peaceful Heaven of Kharkiv Charitable Foundation and established in partnership with UNICEF.

Children aged 3 to 18 attend psychological, creative and developmental activities, meet with a social pedagogue, and take part in mine safety awareness sessions. All activities are adapted to the children’s age and are provided both in group and individual formats. At the same time, psychologists and social workers support families who require comprehensive psychosocial assistance.

“For me, the most important thing is knowing that my child is in a safe place where she is supported, understood, and helped to develop,” says Alina’s mother, a visitor to the safe space.