Ukrainian kids back to school after summer of fun, camps ... and war
- simoneworthing
- Sep 11
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 11
BY SIMONE WORTHING
The Salvation Army Ukraine sent its congratulations to schoolchildren, students, teachers and parents on the ‘Day of Knowledge’ (1 September) as they return to school after the northern summer.
Tragically, this is the fourth year in a row of beginning the school year in a full-scale warzone. Corps across the division have assisted families with backpacks and school supplies as children begin the school year. Several schools will take place in underground stations for safety.
The parents of many children could not accompany them to school this year as they are actively engaged in defending Ukraine from Russia’s invasion, or have lost their lives in this defence.
The Salvation Army in Ukraine, and beyond, has worked hard to give Ukrainian children and youth a summer of fun and relaxation – a break they desperately needed from bomb shelters, drone and missile attacks, and the stress and trauma of war.
In August, 32 delegates and youth leaders from the Eastern Europe Territory, including Ukrainians, attended the European Youth Event (EYE) in the Netherlands. The young people were delighted to worship and enjoy the experience with representatives from all European territories.
Youth leaders in Ukraine ran a convention for senior scouts, helping young people to
appreciate each other, work in a team, and accept themselves. They played games they usually can’t play in typically small residential yards, discussed topics of relevance to them, sang and worshipped together and just had fun.
A junior scouts convention also took place, with children learning camping skills, water sports and crafts. Worship, as always, took centre stage at the conventions.
Week-long day camps were also held in various corps, giving children the opportunity to explore different professions through games and craft, play games together and enjoy visits to parks and places of interest.
Through art therapy, the children learned to discuss their emotions, understand themselves and each other, express their individuality and sympathise with others.
Salvation Army leaders and volunteers, as well as donors and sponsors, have given many children the opportunity to enjoy being a child and young person in as normal a way as possible in a warzone.
It’s important for Ukrainians, especially young people, to know that the world has not forgotten them. Knowing they are prayed for, cared about and supported gives them strength and hope to endure increasingly difficult circumstances, fatigue and ongoing war.
