The grand opening of a summer camp for Ukrainian children took place in Istanbul (Turkey), which became an important event for the community and support for Ukrainian families affected by the war. This event was organized by the Consulate General of Ukraine in Istanbul in cooperation with the Ukrainian Mutual Aid Society in Istanbul (Ukrayna Dayanışma Derneği), which once again emphasizes the importance of uniting Ukrainians abroad to help their compatriots in difficult times.
On the official Facebook page of the Consulate General of Ukraine in Istanbul, there was reported about the start of the camp, in which 45 children will rest this year, including children of military personnel defending Ukraine, children of forced migrants who were forced to leave their homes due to hostilities, as well as the most active students of Saturday schools operating under the Ukrainian Mutual Aid Society . Saturday schools are an important element of preserving Ukrainian culture and language among the diaspora, and for their students this camp becomes not only a place of rest, but also an opportunity to deepen knowledge about their country.
During five days, children will have the opportunity not only to relax on the coast of the warm sea, but also to take part in various master classes that will help them reveal their talents, learn something new and have a good time. The organizers of the camp have prepared a rich program that includes both entertainment activities and educational activities aimed at developing children’s creative and social skills. The children will also have the opportunity to meet other camp participants, to find new friends, which is especially important for them in the conditions of constant stress and challenges brought by the war.
The local government played a significant role in the implementation of this project. The Consulate General of Ukraine in Istanbul expressed special gratitude to the mayor of Buyukcekmece district, Mr. Hasan Akgyun, who not only received the children hospitably, but also provided all the necessary conditions for their comfortable stay. With his support, the camp gained access to modern infrastructure, including safe accommodation, medical support and quality food. This became possible thanks to the close cooperation of local authorities with the Ukrainian diplomatic mission, which is a vivid example of effective international partnership.
Special thanks were expressed to the company “Günsel” and its owner Selami Güner, who ensured a safe and comfortable trip for the children to the place of rest. Thanks to the professional work of the transporters, the children were able to reach the camp without any obstacles, which is an extremely important aspect of the organization of such events, especially in conditions of increased risks.
This initiative is not only an opportunity for children to rest and gain strength, but also an important element of psychological support for those who have survived difficult trials. The summer camp in Istanbul has become a real island of safety and joy for Ukrainian children, where they can forget about the horrors of war, find new friends and simply enjoy their childhood in a friendly and supportive environment.
This event is an important step in ensuring the care and rehabilitation of children who find themselves in difficult life circumstances. It also testifies to the strong ties between the Ukrainian diaspora in Turkey and their homeland, who, despite the distance, continue to support each other and work for a better future.
