The team from the "Peaceful heaven of Kharkiv" Charitable Foundation visited the Vovchansk community, including the village of Bilyi Kolodyaz. Through the "Cash for Heating" program by the International Rescue Committee, we delivered much-needed support to residents. This assistance prioritizes those affected by the war, individuals with disabilities, elderly citizens, and low-income families.
The "Cash for Heating" program provides a one-time payment of 23,600 UAH per household. With these funds, people can purchase and transport essential heating materials for their homes or cover heating utility costs.
Preparing for winter in villages like Bilyi Kolodyaz is a significant challenge under current conditions. This settlement, located just 12 kilometers from the front line, endures constant shelling. Before the full-scale war, Bilyi Kolodyaz was home to over 3,500 people; today, fewer than 350 remain. The village lacks a gas supply, adding to the difficulties.
"Mostly pensioners remain here, as families with children have left," says local resident Volodymyr Anatoliyovych, who has lived in Bilyi Kolodyaz all his life.
As winter approaches, we are doing everything possible to provide warmth to those who need it most. Frontline communities are especially in focus, as their need for support is particularly critical.
In total, 1,011 households in the Vovchansk community will receive financial assistance for firewood this winter, including 229 households in Bilyi Kolodyaz.