Every child has the right to dignity

The "Stronger Together" children's center, which operates under the Charitable Foundation "Caritas Sambir-Drohobych Diocese UGCC" in the Drohobych city, welcomes children with difficult family stories every day. We are raising funds for a washing machine and a clothes dryer so that children's clothing can be washed and dried right at the center, restoring cleanliness and dignity to the child that very same day.

The "Stronger Together" center is a safe space where children from various vulnerable categories – children of military personnel and children of fallen soldiers, children from families in difficult life circumstances, and internally displaced children – can regularly receive psychosocial support, participate in group sessions, creative and developmental activities, and simply be in an atmosphere of acceptance and safety. Children whose parents are temporarily unable to provide adequate care for them often come to the center, and so children may arrive in dirty or rain-soaked clothing. That is precisely why we need a washing machine and a clothes dryer.

A 17-year-old girl has effectively become a full-time adult figure for her younger brothers, aged six and seven. Their mother works two jobs to support three children, but money is catastrophically scarce. Fleeing an abusive father, they moved to a dormitory that has neither a water heater nor a washing machine. Taking a shower or washing clothes is a serious challenge for them every day. And despite all of this, the girl holds on. She brings her brothers to the center and looks after them as best she can. This takes enormous strength – but she should not have to carry it alone. There are many such children at our center, and every one of their stories deserves attention and support.

A washing machine and dryer will allow the boys' clothes to be washed and dried immediately while they attend sessions, play, or rest – and they would go home clean. Without any emphasis on hardship. Simply with care that speaks for itself.

To support this project means giving the center a tool that, quietly and with dignity, will help children feel like everyone else – every single day. Please join us and help us take care of what is small but so very important!