In the run-up to All-Ukrainian Library Day, local communities in the Donetsk region have joined a charitable initiative to create a modern children’s library at the «Okhmatdyt» National Specialised Children’s Hospital.
The initiative is being implemented by the non-governmental organisation 2Centre for Community Development’ as part of the «Library of Hope» charity project. Its aim is to create a modern library space within the hospital, stocked with high-quality children’s literature, where young patients can read, learn, play and take their minds off their treatment, at least for a little while.
The following entities participated in the charity fundraiser: the Donetsk Regional State Administration, the Donetsk Regional Children’s Library (a public institution), and the communities of Velykonovosilkovka, Druzhkivka, Zvanivka, Kostiantynivka, Kurakhiv, Mangush, Myrne, Mykolaiv, Selidiv, Staromlyniv, Sloviansk, Toretsk, Shakhiv, and Udachne communities. The Volnovakha and Kramatorsk District State Administrations also supported the initiative.
Oleksandr Shevchenko, Deputy Head of the Regional State Administration, presented the young patients with 382 copies of fiction, 44 colouring books, 32 magazines, 32 jigsaw puzzles, as well as board games and toys. He emphasised that the ‘Library of Hope’ project is an example of genuine synergy, mutual support and humanity. It is particularly valuable that communities across the Donetsk region have joined this initiative, uniting their efforts for the sake of the children and to support them.
For the Donetsk region, which lives daily under conditions of war, constant shelling and numerous challenges, participation in such initiatives is of particular significance. Despite their own difficulties, communities continue to support those in need and to join in joint efforts aimed at supporting children.
Donetsk Oblast’s participation in the ‘Library of Hope’ project is an example of how joining forces enables the creation of a space where a child can feel warmth, care and support.
For even a small contribution – a book, a game or a toy – can bring a smile to a young patient’s face and help make their time in hospital a little easier.