This is Polina. She is 6 years old.

When she first came to our center, she was quiet and withdrawn. She stayed apart from other children, observing more than participating in group activities.

Our specialists did not rush her. Instead, they gave her time to adapt and get used to the new environment.

At first, Polina began to draw. At first, she chose dark colors. However, gradually the black, brown, and gray shades began to be complemented by lighter and brighter colors. Later, the girl showed her first initiative — she invited another girl to complete a task together. From that moment, the changes became more frequent and more noticeable.

Step by step, Polina is learning to recognize and express her emotions, to trust, and to build friendships. Today, she participates more actively in activities, shares her thoughts, and is already talking about her dreams for the future.

Stories like this remind us once again how important it is to create a safe and supportive space for children at the right time. We continue to stand alongside them so that every child has the opportunity to heal, grow, and look toward the future with confidence.

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The project “EMPOWER: Education, Mental Health, Protection, and Opportunities for Wellbeing and Resilience” is implemented by Save Ukraine in partnership with the German humanitarian organization Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe.