August 19 is World Humanitarian Day, dedicated to recognizing volunteers and humanitarian workers who bring support in moments of hardship.

It is a day of gratitude to those who save lives in crises and disasters, to those who are not afraid to stand by people in distress, and who extend a helping hand in the most difficult moments.

For Ukraine, this day carries a special meaning, as we have been living in the conditions of war for more than 11 years. Humanitarian aid has become a lifeline for millions of people.Since the beginning of russia’s full-scale invasion, our organization has also focused a large part of its work on humanitarian assistance. During this time, more than 107,000 people have received support from Voice of Romni.

We have repaired over 500 homes of Roma and other vulnerable families affected by the war. Our team has delivered food and water, provided firewood and heaters, power banks and warm clothing, baby kits, as well as hygiene kits and dignity packs for women. More than 23,000 people in four regions of Ukraine have received multi-purpose cash assistance. And behind every number, there is always a human story.

We work where it is most difficult. In Kryvyi Rih, Zaporizhzhia, and Kharkiv, our staff wake up after night attacks, go to work, and remain alongside those who live under daily shelling. In the rear, in Zakarpattia, we support large Roma communities and internally displaced families who have lost everything.

According to our study The State of Roma Communities During the War in Ukraine, humanitarian aid remains one of the most urgently needed types of support: 40% of Roma men and women have lost their jobs, 66% report an acute need for food and drinking water, and more than 70% for clothing and hygiene products. These figures once again prove how essential the daily work of humanitarian organizations is, as well as the long-term commitment of partners.

That is why, for us, this day serves as a reminder to the entire world that human solidarity is a powerful driving force. Every day we work so that Ukrainians can endure even under the hardest circumstances. Humanitarian aid is not only about emergency response to crises or support for those affected by the war. It is also a key tool in a holistic approach to working with vulnerable groups living in poverty.

“We go to communities, provide humanitarian aid, and later people join other development activities and projects – they gain a profession and employment, start their own businesses,” – says Anzhelika Bielova, President of Voice of Romni.

This creates a more sustainable and long-term impact, which is why humanitarian aid must remain an important component of support for vulnerable groups.