Ukrainian Camp Offers Respite for Children of Soldiers

Amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, a beacon of hope shines brightly in the form of the "Children of Defenders" project. This initiative, spearheaded by the Chaplaincy Service of the 118th Brigade of the Territorial Defense Forces in Cherkasy, provides a ten-day respite camp for children of soldiers serving on the front lines. Last year, 250 children found solace and joy in the Carpathian Mountains; this year, the organizers aim to extend this opportunity to 330 children. Anna Mukan, whose husband is a soldier, shared her experience, stating, "In the Carpathians, we were able to rest from the daily anxieties, from the nightly trips to the bomb shelter." Her son, Yaroslav, added, "The last day was really cool because we built huts in the forest." Military chaplain Volodymyr Ridnyi emphasized the importance of the project, saying, "While soldiers are at the front defending our country, they know their families are being cared for." This camp offers more than just recreation; it provides a vital sense of security and support for families impacted by war.