Giving Children Childhood Back
This summer, hundreds of vulnerable children in Ukraine and Moldova were given something many of us take for granted: the chance to laugh, play, and simply enjoy being children.
For families living through war, poverty, or disability, daily life is full of challenges. Safe spaces to heal, grow, and build friendships are rare. That is why our summer camps in Ukraine and Moldova are so important. They provide not only fun, but also inclusion, learning, and hope for the future.
Moldova: Building Friendships and Confidence at the Tony Hawks Centre
In Moldova, the Tony Hawks Centre welcomed children of all abilities into summer activities that combined creativity, learning, and fun.
Cooking Club – Children discovered the joy of preparing simple, healthy meals, building both independence and teamwork.
Art and Craft Club – Through painting, drawing, and crafts, children were able to express themselves and take pride in their creativity.
Educational Discovery – A visit to the EduJoc workshop showed children how educational toys are made, sparking curiosity and imagination.
Thanks to these summer camps, children in Moldova discovered new passions, celebrated their creativity, and learned the value of working together. From exploring arts and crafts to trying their hand in the cooking club, each child had the chance to uncover talents they never knew they had. Most importantly, the camps fostered connection, confidence, and joy, giving every child the opportunity to shine and experience the simple pleasures of childhood — moments that can inspire hope, resilience, and lifelong memories long after the summer ends.
Ukraine: Joy and Healing in the Midst of War
In Ukraine, our partners worked tirelessly to create safe spaces for children affected by war and displacement. Despite the surrounding uncertainty, the camps provided moments of peace, joy, and hope.
Alyona and her team at Children’s Hearts Ukraine organized summer camps at the day centre, and camps and day trips at the lake for all children. These activities gave every child a chance to explore, play, and connect with others in a safe and joyful environment.
Trips to the lake gave older children the chance to relax, play, and connect with nature.
For children from the refugee camp, simple joys like swimming, tasting fresh summer fruit, and laughing freely with friends became rare and treasured experiences — moments of normal childhood they had almost forgotten.
The summer camps welcomed all children, giving them a safe place to laugh, create, and build friendships. Here, play was more than just fun — it became a way for children to express their feelings, regain confidence, and find resilience, even while living through the challenges of war.
Led with love and care by dedicated volunteers, Children’s Hearts Ukraine showed once again that when children are nurtured today, they gain the strength to face tomorrow.
Future Built on Play and Care
The summer camps in Moldova and Ukraine were more than just recreational activities; they were lifelines. They offered children a chance to laugh, learn, and build friendships—experiences that many had been deprived of due to hardship and conflict. These moments of joy and connection are vital in helping young minds heal and grow. But the journey doesn’t end with summer. Your support ensures that these children continue to have access to safe spaces, education, and the care they deserve. Together, we can help them build a brighter future, one filled with hope and opportunity.
How You Can Make a Difference
Your generosity can transform lives. By donating today, you provide children in Moldova and Ukraine with the resources they need to thrive—be it through summer camps, educational programs, or ongoing support. Every contribution, big or small, makes a significant impact.
