Children from Sumy region, whose parents died or went missing, arrived in Turkey for rehabilitation
War leaves not only ruins, but also deep scars in the souls of those who survived it. This is especially acutely felt by children who become victims of armed conflicts. Among them are children who lost their parents in the war. The loss of the closest people leaves a void in children’s hearts that needs not only time, but also support to heal. Rehabilitation for such children is critical, helping them cope with emotional pain and allowing them to feel that they are not alone with their grief. That is why it is important to create a safe environment for them, where they can regain their strength, learn to overcome stress and believe in a better future again. International projects designed to help children of war are being created for this purpose. One of these is the “Bridge of Hope” initiative, which this time united Ukraine and Turkey.
On March 17, 2025, a group of children from Sumy region, whose parents died or went missing during the war, arrived in Turkey for rest and rehabilitation. This was announced by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Andriy Sybiga Facebook.
The “Bridge of Hope” project is implemented with the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, the Sumy Regional Military Administration, the Embassy of Ukraine in Turkey, the Alacati Tourist Association and other partners. The first group of 27 children arrived in the province of Izmir, in the city of Cesme. According to the Minister of Foreign Affairs Andrii Sybiga, this initiative is not only a sign of respect for the fallen heroes, but also an important element of the state’s concern for the future of these children.
“This is a sign of respect and care of the Ukrainian state. It is very nice to see that the Turkish city hospitably welcomed Ukrainian children of heroes with posters with warm and sincere words of greeting. This is real Turkish hospitality.” – noted Sybiga.
He also emphasized that the “Bridge of Hope” symbolizes strength, unity and hope, because it is these qualities that help overcome the trials brought by the war.
Фото: ukrinform.ua
The rehabilitation program includes rich rest, psychological support, interesting excursions and cultural activities. All this helps children not only to switch, but also to gradually restore their emotional balance. It is important that children receive not only psychological help, but also sincere care, which helps them feel important, not forgotten.
Sybiga also noted that this initiative was made possible thanks to the strategic partnership between Ukraine and Turkey, stressing:
“We highly value the development of a strategic partnership that allows us to implement such important initiatives. We thank everyone who joined this cause. The project will last for a week, and the children will have a rich and interesting program. We will continue to work together for the benefit of our peoples, our youth and for the sake of fair peace and security for Ukraine.”
There are no excuses for war, but every such initiative proves that even in the darkest times, there is an opportunity for support and recovery. After all, taking care of children is an investment in the future, so that today’s pain does not become decisive for their lives. And it is projects like “Bridge of Hope” that give them a chance for a new beginning, full of warmth, faith and hope.
