Vital Assistance in Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) and Protection for War-Affected IDPs and Host Communities in Eastern Ukraine (2023/2024)

The project focuses on providing essential support to individuals affected by the ongoing military aggression of the Russian Federation in eastern and southern Ukraine, particularly in the frontline zones. It aims to raise awareness about gender-based violence (GBV) and provide critical assistance to victims of such violence, regardless of gender.

The project’s target population includes both IDPs and local communities living in conflict-affected regions, with an emphasis on providing comprehensive services for GBV prevention, mental health support, and informing the population about available assistance.

Raising awareness of gender-based violence (GBV) and establish safe spaces for women and girls, where they can access support, engage in learning activities, and restore their emotional well-being. In addition, the project ensures access to essential services that support the social and psychological rehabilitation of those affected by GBV.

As part of the project, four Women and Girls Safe Spaces (WGSS) will be established to support those affected by the war or facing difficult life circumstances. These spaces will provide a comprehensive range of services, including:

Case Management
Individual consultations and educational sessions aimed at raising awareness of gender-based violence (GBV), prevention strategies, and available support mechanisms. These activities will empower women with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves and seek help when needed.

Social Services
Support in navigating social protection systems, including assistance in accessing essential services available in the community. These services aim to enhance the overall well-being and stability of women and their families.

Psychological Support
Access to mental health professionals through one-on-one counseling and group sessions designed to alleviate stress and foster emotional recovery. These services are tailored to restore psychological balance and resilience.

Children’s Activities
While mothers receive support, children will participate in creative workshops and developmental activities. These sessions provide a safe, engaging environment for children, helping them cope with stress and maintain emotional stability.

Three Mobile Teams for Psychosocial Adaptation to provide essential support at the community level and in places of compact residence for those in need. These teams focus on raising awareness of gender-based violence (GBV), its prevention strategies, and offering psychosocial support for survivors, including individual consultations and group sessions that create a supportive environment for sharing experiences and receiving professional psychological care.

Regular updates to the map of available services and clear referral mechanisms established to connect survivors with the appropriate specialists promptly and effectively.

Capacity building for service providers to enhance service quality and responsiveness to survivors’ needs.

Awareness-raising campaigns to promote the demand for services to combat gender-based violence. Particular emphasis is placed on addressing and overcoming cultural resistance within Ukrainian communities to participating in traditional psychosocial support and protection services.

Global Affairs Canada

CARE

April 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024

Kharkiv, Odesa, Kherson, Mykolaiv, Zaporizhzhia, and Kharkiv regions of Ukraine

Total budget – UAH 27 718 852,10