Amidst the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the dire humanitarian situation faced by millions continues to worsen. Organizations such as Caritas and Aid to the Church in Need have been steadfast in their efforts to provide essential support to those in need.
By Lisa Zengarini
Over the past three years, Ukraine has been devastated by war, leaving over 12.7 million people in urgent need of assistance. With 6.8 million Ukrainian refugees seeking safety in neighboring countries, the scale of the crisis is monumental.
6.8 million Ukrainian refugees and 12.7 million in need of assistance
Within Ukraine, more than 3.6 million individuals have been displaced, facing extreme challenges exacerbated by the harsh winter conditions. Temperatures dropping below -20°C have left many without basic necessities like heating, electricity, and clean water, due to a severe energy supply shortage.
Despite the dangers posed by ongoing shelling and bombing, humanitarian organizations are working tirelessly to reach those in need of food, shelter, and medical care.
Caritas’ Ongoing Support for the Vulnerable
One such organization providing crucial aid is Caritas, a global network of Catholic relief agencies. Since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022, Caritas Ukraine and its partners have been on the frontlines, offering medical, psychological, and social assistance to the most vulnerable, including children, the elderly, and disabled individuals.
€25 million Aid from ACN in Three Years
Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), a Catholic charity, has allocated over €25 million in humanitarian and pastoral projects to support both the Greek Catholic and Latin Catholic Churches in Ukraine. Since the invasion, ACN has funded nearly one thousand initiatives, with a significant portion dedicated to supporting priests through Mass stipends to ensure the continuation of their pastoral work.
Meeting the Material, Pastoral, and Spiritual Needs of Ukrainians
ACN’s efforts have evolved to address the changing needs of Ukraine’s population. Initially focused on assisting internally displaced persons, ACN has shifted towards providing pastoral care, trauma support, and transportation aid. The organization has supported priests, nuns, seminarians, and children through various programs and initiatives.
Prayers and Global Support for Ukraine
Bishop Maksym Ryabukha and Bishop Stanislav Szyrokoradyuk have emphasized the significance of solidarity and faith in overcoming the hardships faced by Ukraine. They express gratitude for the prayers and support of the global Christian community, which has been instrumental in helping Ukrainians endure the ongoing crisis.
(Source: ACN and Caritas Italiana)
