Due to the escalation of hostilities in the Donetsk region and the ongoing threat posed by Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, the residents of the Pokrovsk Psychoneurological Residential Care Facility were evacuated to ensure their safety and well-being; among them, 100 residents were evacuated to the Kingdom of Spain.
From the very first days of their stay abroad, the Ukrainians felt the sincere support and care of their Spanish colleagues. The residents are delighted to participate in local events, learn new daily habits, and actively integrate into the life of the host community.
One of the residents’ favorite leisure activities has become hiking, which is extremely well-developed in Spain. In April, the residents officially kicked off the spring hiking season by going on their first organized hike.
During the hike, the group visited a local reservoir. This experience was truly therapeutic for them: the sound of the water and the tranquility of nature helped them find inner balance; physical activity in the fresh air filled them with energy and strengthened their overall physical condition; the relaxed atmosphere helped reduce anxiety levels, which is critically important for people who have survived the horrors of war.
Organizing hikes and group outings is not just entertainment; it is a comprehensive rehabilitation tool, such as: socialization—moving together helps build friendships and develop communication skills; adaptation—discovering interesting places in the surrounding world helps them adjust more quickly to new living conditions; mutual support—on a hike, the participants learn to help one another, which strengthens their team spirit.
Such hikes are about recovery, about the small joys that make up life once again. Spring reminds us all that there is much warmth, light, and hope ahead.
We express our boundless gratitude to the Kingdom of Spain, its caring citizens, and volunteer organizations for the warm welcome and safety provided to our residents.