On September 28, 2025, ADRA Ukraine introduced ADRA Kids, a new initiative to assist children impacted by the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian conflict.

According to organizers, 149 children ages 6–14, children of veterans, the missing, and the wounded, attended and received gift sets funded by private donations. Younger children participated with their parents in activities such as a “wall of dreams.”

Workshops included archery, candle making, and eco-bag painting, and a site-wide quest sent teams to complete challenges across the venue.

Honorary guests addressed participants. Mykola Kuleba—founder of Save Ukraine and Ukraine’s Presidential Commissioner for Children’s Rights from 2014 to 2021—referenced the previous night’s shelling in Kyiv and underscored the importance of restoring normalcy for children.

"You can see it in the adults; they didn't sleep, they were worried about their families. But the children, they're joyful. It's very important for us to restore their lives. I want to wish you, adults, to sometimes look at difficulties more simply, more childlike. Because we must be strong for them," he said.

Alona Luhantseva, a mentorship program coordinator and leader of the “Supermentors” community from the Association of Mentorship for Children and Youth, also offered remarks.

Performances featured Anzhelika Rudnytska, Honored Artist of Ukraine, and singer-volunteer Sofia Nersesian.

"Returning Childhood"

Organizers said more than 150 children received gifts “for development and creativity,” along with attention and support.

“Many think children already have everything they need,” organizers stated. “In reality, children, especially children of veterans, need attention and care. We received dozens of messages from parents saying their children needed this.”

Mission of the ADRA Kids Project

ADRA Ukraine said the ADRA Kids project will provide comprehensive support ranging from material aid to psychological assistance. Planned components include rest and recovery in sanatoriums and camps, professional psychological support online and at ADRA centers, and involvement in clubs and sports.

The stated goal is to help 100,000 children in Ukraine regain psychological balance, socialize, and experience the joys of childhood.

The original article was published on the Ukrainian Union Conference Ukrainian news site. Join the ANN WhatsApp Channel for the latest Adventist news.