Humanitarian aid in southern and eastern Ukraine
Challenging task of distributing aid supplies
Intensive bombing and fighting in the east and south of Ukraine are making the provision of humanitarian aid supplies a complex and highly challenging task. The situation is being further compounded by repeated rocket attacks on energy, water and gas infrastructure. Despite this, HEKS/EPER is continuing operations in areas around the cities of Donetsk, Mykolaiv, Kharkiv, Kherson and Odessa. Items being distributed include relief supplies, winter kits, WASH toiletries, special hygiene packages for women and – where possible – aid-in-cash.
HEKS/EPER is assessing the damage to water supply and sanitation facilities in the Donetsk, Kherson and Mykolaiv regions with a view to repairing critical infrastructure. When winter temperatures fall below freezing, HEKS/EPER distributes stoves, solid fuels and sleeping bags so that the most vulnerable groups are assured of a minimum of warmth. Emergency kits for house repairs are also being distributed in southern and eastern Ukraine, and minor-to-moderate repairs are being made to badly damaged houses.
Winterization programs in Eastern and Southern Ukraine
Winters in Ukraine can be extremely harsh, often with temperatures well below zero—sometimes as low as minus 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. The ongoing conflict results in frequent attacks by drones, rockets, and artillery, causing extensive damage to critical infrastructure. As a result, communities near the frontlines may be left without electricity, heating, or even water for months at a time. Despite these dire conditions, many residents have chosen to remain in their homes.
HEKS/EPER Ukraine teams are working to support these communities in eastern and southern Ukraine. In partnership with USAID (BHA), Norwegian Church Aid, and other organizations, our staff are providing essential aid, including sleeping bags, solid fuel briquettes, and other critical supplies, to vulnerable populations in hard-to-reach areas.
Aid for displaced persons returning to their homes
The UNHCR estimates that as of end-April 2024, there were 3.5 million internally displaced people in Ukraine. Most notably in the areas where HEKS/EPER is operating, there is a strong desire to return home, despite the risks, frequently owing to financial difficulties. People then often live in the cellars of their destroyed buildings and depend on humanitarian aid to meet their basic needs. Thanks to its long-standing experience in crisis regions, HEKS/EPER has developed the requisite capability to adapt its projects in a flexible and context-based manner, and to respond rapidly to the various needs of these people by supplying toiletries, winter gear, shelter or aid-in-cash.
A challenging working environment
Despite all the efforts, humanitarian aid is in short supply in Ukraine, and civilians are often unable to access information about what aid is available. Many people also fear being targeted at distribution points. Daily aerial attacks are delaying aid distribution, and the situation in mined areas is even more challenging. In addition, logistical obstacles and damaged infrastructure are complicating the task of preparing and delivering vital humanitarian aid.