Hug’s First Summer Camps in Ukraine in 2023

The summer of 2023 marked a milestone for Hug. It was the first time we had the opportunity to organize summer camps in Ukraine in collaboration with a tourist camp. What started as a hopeful initiative to provide children with a safe space turned into a movement of hope, community, and healing.

A Sanctuary Near the Frontlines

Just seventy kilometers from bombed Lviv, a place of peace and joy was created. Here, in the shadow of war, many children had the chance to feel safe, to laugh, play, and make new friends. Many had witnessed things no child should ever see, but at the camp, they were given a pause – a moment of childhood where joy and play could take over the otherwise heavy realities of daily life.

Thanks to an incredible team of sports educators, psychologists, and volunteers, the camp became more than just a temporary refuge. Through sports, outdoor activities, and creative workshops, the children found their inner strength. They learned to cooperate, overcome obstacles, and rebuild their trust in the future, a future that so often feels uncertain. Succeeding in a climbing challenge, paddling a canoe for the first time, or creating something beautiful in an art workshop became small but significant victories in their recovery.

Remaining Present in a Changing World

During the first years of the war, many children fled to Sweden and other European countries, where they were given a chance for safety and stability. But millions of children remain in Ukraine, in areas where the war is never far away. Their need for security and rehabilitation is immense, but resources are limited. This is why it was so crucial to create something on-site, to show that the children are in Ukraine are not forgotten, that there is a future for them, even in the midst of hardship.

Even though the war was only a few miles away, the camp became a place where children could breathe. In this safe environment, they found a space to laugh and play without constant fear.  

From Dream to Reality

Making these camps a reality was anything but easy. It required extensive planning, logistics, and resources to create a secure environment where children could receive the help they needed. Without the support of our donors, volunteers, and friends, this would never have been possible. You made this happen. You gave these children the chance to simply be children again.

Camp Life and Community

Throughout the weeks, the camp was filled with activities that allowed the children to explore and express themselves. Sports and outdoor adventures took center stage, with football, climbing, and kayaking playing crucial roles in their rehabilitation. At the same time, the children participated in creative workshops where they could paint, play music, and tell their stories through theater.  

But it wasn’t just the activities themselves that made a difference – it was the sense of community. Feeling seen and included, laughing and sharing experiences with others, was something many of the children described as invaluable. The evenings were filled with campfire songs, storytelling, and conversations that allowed the children to relax and feel a sense of togetherness. Simply sitting together, talking, laughing, and knowing they were not alone became a priceless part of the experience.

Long-Term Work for a Brighter Future

We saw firsthand the impact these camps had, and we realized that this couldn’t be a one-time effort. The need for rehabilitation, safety, and community among these children is enormous.Today, we are working to develop our program to reach even more children. With the help of Ukrainian and international experts, we are establishing structures to provide children with PTSD and severe trauma the support and treatment they need. We are developing more permanent centers and continuing to collaborate with local organizations to create sustainable solutions.

Our vision is that every child in Ukraine, no matter where they are, should have the opportunity to feel safe, grow, and dream of the future.  

Do you want to be part of what we started? Help us continue to create safe spaces for Ukraine’s children.

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