Our new project “Empowering small businesses of Ukraine” aims to support individuals affected by war in developing and sustaining their small businesses through resources, guidance, and opportunities for skills development. By addressing their unique challenges, the project seeks to empower them to rebuild livelihoods, foster economic resilience, and create a positive impact on both individuals and their communities.

 

The team has initiated various projects, one of which involves assisting an internally displaced family we encountered while aiding in the rebuilding of their home. The top floor of their house was destroyed by a missile, prompting our team members to participate in the reconstruction. Through this engagement, our team learned about Natalia, the mother of three children, who has a deep interest in baking and dreams of becoming a professional cake decorator. The team intends to support Natalia in pursuing her passion for baking, enabling her to generate income by selling cakes to meet the family's needs and contribute to further reconstruction efforts.

 

A family in Moshchun, a village outside of Kyiv, faced occupation and had to live in their basement for many weeks. The family's home was destroyed by a bombing and now they are living in a container home with little hope of rebuilding. The devastation they faced has drastically changed their living situation and left them with the harsh reality of starting anew. A few months ago their father/grandfather passed away from a heart attack, leaving behind his wife, daughter, and grandchildren. The wife is coping with her grief by sewing pillows for wounded soldiers in hospitals, however, her old sewing machine was not functioning properly. After purchasing a new sewing machine for her, she now has the means to continue her volunteer work, as well as potentially sell her creations