Safe spaces for children

Project: Safe spaces for children.

The project is implemented in partnership with the international organization World Vision.

A story of hope and love: how the Safe Spaces for Children project is changing lives.

Ruslana Mishchenko is a volunteer of the “Arms of Mercy” foundation in Sumy and is responsible for the “Safe Spaces for Children” project at the church. Ruslana conducts classes with children and their mothers every week.

Three months ago, a new mother, Dasha, came to the class with her two sons. As usual, our volunteer raised a topic that is relevant for mothers – raising children, mothers shared their difficulties and stories. One told how her son’s behavior gets better after they attend these meetings, and another about the power of prayer and faith.

Dasha listened attentively. And then… she began to cry and told her story through tears. “He is so naughty at home, he shouts and it is impossible to deal with him,” Dasha shared about her eldest son. And she tearfully told about the smaller one: “I suffered so much, I constantly go to the doctors to rule out autism and help the child. But it’s useless.”

During the classes, Dasha found support, understanding, and valuable advice. Mentors helped her to look at the situation in a new way and build relationships with children. “We saw that the eldest son behaves well in classes. They advised Dasha to praise him more for this,” Ruslana said.

Dasha began to apply the advice in life: she communicated more with her eldest son, spent time with him, and praised him for his achievements. And although the changes are happening gradually, she sees that the atmosphere in the house is becoming more peaceful and comforting.

In addition to classes, Dasha now attends a women’s group every Friday. There she found even more like-minded women who understood her feelings and supported her.

Every week, Dasha felt hope growing in her heart. The hope is that her family will be able to overcome all difficulties, and that her boys will grow in love and understanding. And that she herself will become the mother she always dreamed of being – loving, wise, patient.

This story is not over yet. The family still has a lot of work and challenges ahead. But now she knows that she is not alone on this path. That there are people nearby who are ready to support, advise, and help. And that faith and love are the way to real miracles.