During four shifts in August-September, the recovery camp “Ptakha Camp” attracted 220 children and 100 mothers from frontline regions. The family retreat was organized by the NGO “Podilskyi Regional Development Agency” within the framework of the Project “Integrated support for war-affected children, families and communities”, funded by the European Union and implemented by the Solidarity Fund PL in Ukraine within the framework of the Psychosocial Program PRO_MentalHealth.

The purpose of the camp is the psychological rehabilitation of families with children through the creation of a safe and supportive space for temporary stay and comprehensive recovery.

On September 18, the team of the Solidarity Fund PL in Ukraine conducted a monitoring visit to “Ptakha Camp” and got acquainted with the peculiarities of the camp organization and program activities. Myroslav Skirka, Head of the Association of Ukrainians in Poland, also joined the visit.

“In times of war, it is the resilience of the population that becomes the foundation of the state, because human capital is its main basis. Children’s camps are a space where inner strength, faith in the future, and the ability to overcome challenges that will determine the face of the country tomorrow are formed,” said Pavel Kost, head of the Solidarity Fund PL in Ukraine.

As Inna Smirnova, administrator of Ptakha Camp, said, this camp is unique in that it is designed for mothers with children: “Activities are combined with psychological practices. The main thing is the value of time, life and the opportunity to set an example for their children. This is especially important for mothers, because here they find meaning, internal resources and inspiration to live on, and by their own example they motivate children for a happy future.”

The camp program includes group psychological classes, art therapy and individual consultations, which helps to reduce stress, anxiety, gain knowledge and tools to maintain emotional health. In addition, participants join excursions, sports and creative activities, etc.

We are sincerely grateful to our partners for organizing rehabilitation and recreation camps and supporting families from the front-line territories of Ukraine!