ROSELAND, New Jersey — Hope for Ukraine, a U.S.-based non-profit dedicated to humanitarian aid in Ukraine, launched its “Summer of Hope” campaign this week. The initiative aims to bring a sense of normalcy and joy to nearly 3,000 Ukrainian children impacted by the ongoing conflict.
The campaign will offer five-day summer camps across three locations: Ukraine, Italy, and the United States. These camps will provide a much-needed escape for children, focusing on fun activities, educational opportunities, and fostering social connections.
In Ukraine, camps will prioritize rehabilitation and psychological support for children dealing with the trauma of war.
“The war leaves a cruel imprint on the child’s psycho-emotional state,” said Maria Kulyniak, Camp Director for a participating organization in Kryvyi Rih, Ukraine. “Our camps will feature professional mentors to help children cope with these challenges.”
For Ukrainian refugee children in Italy, Hope for Ukraine is partnering with local organizations to offer them a unique opportunity: attending summer camps hosted by professional soccer clubs like AC Milan and Fiorentina.
“These camps are more than just sports programs,” said Marco Toson, President of Hope Ukraine Foundation ETS, an Italian partner organization. “They provide a safe haven for children to escape the trauma and build friendships, all while developing valuable life skills.”
The United States will welcome over 1,000 Ukrainian refugee children to camps across several states, including Tennessee, Ohio, Indiana, North Carolina, and Washington. These camps will offer a fun and enriching summer experience for children who have fled their homes.
“This summer, we’re determined to bring hope and joy to these children,” said Yuriy Boyechko, Founder and CEO of Hope for Ukraine. “Through ‘Summer of Hope,’ we want to create a safe and supportive environment where they can heal,learn, and simply be kids again.”
Hope for Ukraine’s initiative highlights the ongoing impact of the war on Ukrainian children. The “Summer of Hope” campaign aims to provide a much-needed escape and a chance for these children to rebuild a sense of normalcy in their lives.
