In recent days, Kyiv has endured devastating missile and drone attacks, with lives lost, many people injured, and homes and buildings across the city damaged.
Among those affected is our member, La Strada-Ukraine.
During an overnight Russian missile and drone attack on Kyiv on 1-2 July, the blast wave from a nearby strike damaged La Strada-Ukraine’s office, including the premises of its National Toll-Free Hot Line for Children and Youth. Office equipment and computer hardware were also damaged.
At the time of the attack, counsellors were in a shelter. We are deeply relieved that no members of staff were injured.
And yet, despite the damage, the National Toll-Free Hot Line for Children and Youth has remained fully operational.
This fact deserves to be recognized.
At a time when children and young people across Ukraine continue to live with fear, loss, disruption and uncertainty, the team at La Strada-Ukraine continues to ensure that someone is there to listen. Their counsellors continue to provide support under conditions that no child helpline should ever have to face.
Child Helpline International stands in solidarity with our colleagues at La Strada-Ukraine, and with all those affected by the continuing attacks on Ukraine.
We honour the professionalism, resilience and extraordinary commitment of a team that, even after its own workplace was damaged, has kept this vital lifeline open for children and young people.
To our colleagues at La Strada-Ukraine: we see you, we stand with you, and we are profoundly grateful for all that you continue to do.
Helen Mason
Executive Director
