The Congress of Local and Regional Authorities under the President of Ukraine presented a large-scale initiative called ‘Side by Side’, which unites Ukrainian communities for mutual support. According to Oleksiy Kuleba, Minister of Communities and Territories Development, the project involves partnerships between rear and frontline communities that have suffered the most damage or are under constant shelling.
To date, more than 100 communities have joined the project, and more than 50 memoranda of cooperation have already been signed.
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The main areas of work:
- Restoration of infrastructure: residential buildings, schools, hospitals, and social facilities.
- Humanitarian aid: support in the face of power cuts and massive shelling.
- Cultural and social support: community cohesion and engagement of young people in joint activities.
However, 114 more outpost communities need help. Each rear-guard community can become a partner, helping to restore infrastructure, support people and strengthen social ties.
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