Fifteen schools in Vinnytsia, Zhytomyr, and Kirovohrad regions are launching Caritas “Happiness Spaces” — inclusive support hubs for students, teachers, and families. The initiative is part of the “Strengthening Ukraine Now” (SUN) project, funded by Caritas Austria, the Austrian Development Agency, and NACHBAR IN NOT.
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This is Caritas Ukraine’s first multisectoral project that combines education, child protection, inclusion, and livelihoods support. Its goal is to foster safer and more supportive school environments, helping children and their communities cope with the ongoing challenges of war.
Each school team includes two social pedagogues who will lead group sessions for children and parents using the “Safe Space” methodology. A psychologist will work across five schools per region, focusing on emotional wellbeing and group dynamics.
The initiative also involves specialised social workers. Inclusion officers will support awareness-raising, organise inclusive activities, and consult teachers on working with children with disabilities. Livelihood officers will manage grants, conduct household visits, assess individual needs, and support employment-related efforts.
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