Not left alone with misfortune: Rokada supported a family from the Sumy region who lost their home due to a Russian drone
Just over half a year ago, the Rybalchenko family lived in the village of Stetskivka, Sumy region. They had their own house, a car, and despite the systematic shelling of the region, they still dared to make plans for tomorrow. However, in a single moment, they lost everything: a Russian drone struck their homestead.
“Thankfully, we were not physically hurt. But all of our property is practically destroyed,” says Yana Rybalchenko, adding that they had to look for shelter elsewhere. “We were under so much stress that words cannot describe it. We decided to move to Sumy. I admit, it’s terrifying to even look back on.”
Yana, along with her husband, two young children, and her mother who has a disability, were forced to start settling down in the regional center under the status of internally displaced persons.
“After everything we went through, I constantly felt anxiety and fear… I had previously heard that Rokada has good psychologists, so I reached out for help,” Yana continues.
Tetiana Matviienko, a psychologist at the fund’s regional office, began working with the woman on her emotional recovery.
“Together with my colleagues, we provided comprehensive cross-sectoral case management. In addition to psychological support, Iryna Akymenko, a social worker, also worked with the family. Thanks to her assistance, the family received a refrigerator and two children’s beds with mattresses. Furthermore, through the support of the LINK consortium, the Rybalchenko family received a humanitarian kit with essential items,” says Tetiana Matviienko.
Partners of Rokada also joined in to support the family, providing financial assistance for rent and other needs.
“Throughout all this time, we have remained in touch with the ‘Rokada’ team. We were not left alone with our misfortune. We felt support at every stage — from the very first consultation to resolving daily living issues. This gave us the strength not to give up, to move forward, and to believe that everything will be fine,” Yana Rybalchenko concludes.
If your family or loved ones have been affected by the war and need support, please contact the Rokada Charitable Foundation in the Sumy region at: +380 67 309 8937. Our specialists will provide timely psychological, social, and humanitarian assistance.
The project is implemented with the financial support of UNHCR Ukraine – the UN Refugee Agency.
