“We Are Not Forgotten”: A Story of Endurance and Care
06/11/2025
As part of the project «Humanitarian assistance in the areas of basic needs, food security, hygiene, winterization and psychosocial support for conflict-affected people of Ukraine», implemented by the ASB Ukraine team with the financial support of the German Federal Foreign Office Auswärtiges Amt, assistance continues to be provided to the most vulnerable groups affected by the conflict.
During one of the monitoring visits we had a conversation with Mr. Oleksandr.
Oleksandr was born in Severodonetsk, Luhansk Oblast. He lived here all his life. Unfortunately, his hometown has been under occupation for three years now. Until March 2022, Oleksandr stayed at home, hiding from permanent attacks in the basement. The man hoped that the situation would improve. Nevertheless, the danger increased, with each passing day. Finally, Oleksandr was forced to make one of the hardest decisions in his life and to be evacuated.
On the evacuation train he departed to Ivano-Frankivsk. There, Oleksandr met his relative, Mrs. Liudmyla, who told him about the Kolonshchyna village, where a special town for internally displaced elderly people had been built. Subsequently, both Oleksandr and Liudmyla moved there.
Now they live close to each other and help each other as well. «It is easier to hold on, when someone like a close person is nearby, - says Oleksandr - Together, we have overcome many difficulties, and now, at least, we can support each other.»
During the monitoring visit, the man introduced his relative Liudmyla to the organization's employees. It turned out that both are recipients of multi-purpose financial assistance provided by ASB Ukraine.
«A huge thank you, - says the man. - It is important to know that we are not forgotten. Your visit is such kind of support and care for us. The funds received we spent on medicines and the most necessary things.»
Mr. Oleksandr's story is a demonstration of the human endurance power, mutual support, and also the importance of care in difficult times.