Support for Ukrainian families affected by the war
Donate to support the Community Centers in Ukraine and Casa Emmaus in Italy
The war in Ukraine has worsened the education crisis that began with the pandemic, depriving many children of consistent access to schooling.
AVSI is responding with an integrated approach that combines education, child protection, and psychosocial support through the creatioDonate to support the Community Centers in Ukraine and Casa Emmaus in Italyn of Community Centers: safe spaces for children and caregivers, offering services tailored to their needs.
In Italy, AVSI – also through the Emmaus association – supports refugee families with reception programs and job orientation pathways.
What we will do with your donation
Psychological, educational, and social support for Ukrainian children, young people, and veterans at community centers in Ukraine
AVSI responds to the educational crisis in Ukraine with an integrated approach that promotes safe and inclusive environments for children, young people, and veterans.
At the heart of this effort are Community Centers—multi-service spaces offering:
- Recreational and leisure activities to encourage socialization and reduce stress
- Remedial classes, after-school programs, and distance learning support through internet access, digital devices, and qualified teachers
- Mental health and psychosocial support, with referrals to specialized services when needed
- Parenting support to strengthen families’ educational role
Where it is not possible to set up a center, AVSI works through mobile teams of educators, social workers, and psychologists, reaching the most isolated communities.
Thanks to the Tents Campaign, centers will be able to welcome more families and provide:
- Certified training for local staff, with a focus on veterans
- Psychological and social assistance for veterans and complex cases
- Health and psychosocial services for children and adults
- Recreational activities for children (ages 3–17)
- Soft skills training for young people (ages 14–24), with a focus on emotional resilience and critical thinking
Support pathways for orphaned youth and refugee families in Milan through Emmaus
Before the full-scale invasion, Emmaus managed 9 apartments in Kharkiv for orphaned youth and young people with disabilities, supporting them towards independence.
In 2022, the organization evacuated most beneficiaries and staff to Italy, where it obtained temporary protection and now runs:
- Casa Emmaus, a residence for 15 young people and tutors
- 8 apartments for vulnerable refugee families
Emmaus also coordinates La Bottega, a craft workshop for young people with disabilities.
“We are building a safe place for our young people, where they can grow into adults capable of taking responsibility for their own lives, always in dialogue with those they trust.”
Elena Mazzola, President of Emmaus
Thanks to the Tents Campaign, it will be possible to support:
- 25 orphaned young people and young people with disabilities
- 20 refugee families (mothers with children, older people, families with children with disabilities)
Planned activities:
- Social, educational, medical, and employment support at Casa Emmaus
- Integration and access to stable housing for refugee families
- Support with job searching, social inclusion, and school enrollment
- Development of a host-family network for young people and families