The Ukrainian Women’s Association Australia – Lesya Ukrainka Branch, Geelong with support from Ukraine Crisis Appeal proudly funded the Wings of Hope – Songs of the Kookaburra summer camp in Lviv; a 10 day camping experience for the children of fallen, missing and captured Ukrainian soldiers.
The organisers perfectly summed up their experiences when they started: 
”These children are extraordinary. Every day they live with a sense of loss; some will never again embrace their loved ones, while others still wait for those missing or held in captivity. Their childhoods are forever marked by war, and yet they are remarkably strong”.
Over the course of this retreat, the children were offered art therapy sessions, team games and sports competitions. Field trips were also organised to the Science Museum, VR Port Escape Rooms, Oceanarium Lviv and the cultural and historical site of Ivan Dovbush’s estate.
A core component of the program revolved around psychological support. The art therapy sessions allowed the children to express their thoughts and feelings through drawing and creativity. A special training session on preventing human trafficking and other forms of violence was also conducted. Through trust building games, relaxation exercises, and joint creative projects, the children were provided the opportunity to release their tensions and feel part of a supportive community.
Staying in the Mshanets Cottages offered comfortable conditions perfect for the creation of a safe environment. This was essential for children who have experienced loss and traumatic events.
The results of the camp exemplified the effectiveness of the program as the children actively participated in group activities, showing initiative and openness. A warm community was formed that continues to support each other even after the camp’s conclusion.
We thank The Ukrainian Women’s Association Australia – Lesya Ukrainka Branch, Geelong for their initiative in highlighting the importance of this project.
For the full report visit ukrainecrisisappeal.org and please consider making a donation to ensure we are able to fund essential humanitarian projects such as the Wings of Hope – Songs of the Kookaburra summer camp in order to support the childhoods of those suffering the effects of war.
