Our resolve is much stronger this 2023 to keep Ukraine’s children safe and warm

Chris Palusky is World Vision's Multi-Country Response Director for the Ukraine Crisis Response (UCR). He shares his thoughts leading the UCR team in Ukraine, Romania, Moldova and Georgia through the new year to fulfill Our Promise to the children and families affected by the crisis.

Every new year ushers new and better beginnings.

For many of us, it offers fresh start to realign our priorities in life which may include family, health, career, involvement in church ministry or charity work, and pursue a new hobby or interests.

We eagerly anticipate the hope and promise the new year brings.

But for the 5.59 million internally displaced people in war-torn Ukraine and the 7.91 million refugees in European countries, they do not have this privilege.

Their new year is marked with hunger, uncertainty, and fear.  Perhaps, one of the the most grueling and loneliest new year celebrations they will experience in their lifetime.

Their difficult situation is made more unbearable by regular attacks on energy infrastructure leaving millions of people in Ukraine with no electricity, heating and water as the temperatures have fallen below zero in most parts of the country.

The attacks have also destroyed homes, schools, medical facilities, and community centers. Innocent children and families bear the brunt of the worsening crisis.

Millions of children and families are staying in damaged, damp and cold homes or in centers for displaced people without proper heating and supply of water.  Extreme cold - winter temperature increases the risk for babies, children, and the elderly to get sick.

Displaced families and refugees are forced to endure the freezing weather in an empty stomach. The needs are enormous.

World Vision’s winterization program ensure that children and families have warm, safe and dignified living conditions to weather the tough winter season.

Families have received cash assistance for their food and shelter needs. Winter jackets, footwear, blankets, thermal clothing, heating devices, stoves and thermal appliances were also provided to the displaced families.

As we step into the new year and confront the challenges brought by the harsh winter season and the ongoing war, we have stronger resolve to fulfill Our Promise to the most vulnerable children and families.

We will deliver and march on with unwavering courage and commitment, knowing that as we heed God’s call to serve in the most dangerous places - our partners, donors, volunteers, churches and communities are with us.

Watch video: Chris Palusky shares the four pillars of UCR's response strategy