Together, We Created Summer Adventures for 100 Children in Ukraine

This summer, 100 children spent time exploring the mountains of western Ukraine at summer camps organized by HUG together with our partners. The camps welcomed children who have lost one or both parents, or whose parent is missing or held in captivity because of the war.

The days were filled with mountain hikes, cycling, cave exploration, and rafting. Children who had only just met found themselves navigating trails, paddling together and helping each other through unfamiliar challenges.

Away from their everyday routines and screens, there was time for conversations, new friendships, and shared discoveries. A raft takes teamwork to steer, and a cave route calls for someone to lead the way and someone to make sure no one is left behind. Through these experiences, the children learned to cooperate, take responsibility, and discover what they could achieve together.

Children affected by war need support, but they also need what every child needs: space to play, learn, make friends and grow at their own pace. A summer camp cannot change the circumstances waiting for them at home, but it can give them something valuable to carry forward - new skills, greater confidence and memories of a summer spent with friends.

All 100 children took part free of charge, thanks to our partners, donors and volunteers who helped make the camps possible.

Help Us Welcome More Children Next Summer

We continue to hear from families who would like their children to take part. That is why HUG will keep fundraising throughout the year, so we can welcome more children next summer.

Every contribution brings us closer to making that possible.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped create these experiences. With your support, we can open the door to more adventures, friendships and opportunities for children in Ukraine to learn, grow and simply enjoy being children.