Caritas Ukraine is part of one of the largest international charitable networks in the world and Europe. Its mission is to develop and implement national programs to provide social assistance and support to the most vulnerable populations in Ukraine, regardless of nationality or religion.
Official Name:
International Charitable Foundation “Caritas Ukraine”
Areas of Activity:
Caritas Ukraine focuses on several key areas:
Emergency Assistance: Providing help to children, youth, and families in crisis situations.
Health Care: Supporting health initiatives and services.
Support for People with Special Needs: Addressing the needs of individuals with disabilities.
Migration Issues: Tackling social problems related to migration.
Disaster Response: Reacting to emergencies and disasters.
Community Development: Promoting the development of local communities.
Leadership:
President: Tetyana Stavnycha
Board Member, Ukrainian Greek Catholic Priest and Military Chaplain: Father Andriy Zelinsky
Board Member, Treasurer, Responsible for the Development of the Knights of Columbus Movement in Ukraine: Bohdan Kovaliv
Board Member, Communications Specialist: Yaryna Klyukovska
History:
The first Caritas organizations in Ukraine began to emerge through the initiative of Greek Catholic communities following the country’s independence in 1991. Initially, the focus was on distributing humanitarian aid to those in need. However, societal needs soon led to the expansion of social work areas, resulting in the creation of the International Charitable Foundation “Caritas Ukraine.” In 1994, the fund’s management and coordination center was established in Lviv with a representation in Kyiv.
In 1999, Caritas Ukraine became a full member of the international confederations Caritas Internationalis and Caritas Europa, adhering to their shared mission and implementing jointly agreed national social assistance programs.
Today, Caritas Ukraine employs over 1,000 staff and volunteers and comprises 37 regional organizations. These organizations operate as independent legal entities and can establish parish-level Caritas organizations within their dioceses.
Since 2024, Caritas Ukraine has been a member of the Alliance of Ukrainian Civil Society Organizations.
Contacts:
Address: Ukraine, Lviv, 79016 A/C 3769, Ozarkevicha St., 4
Website: Caritas Ukraine
Facebook Page: Caritas Ukraine
