One year ago this week, millions of Ukrainians began desperately seeking safety in basements, subway stations, across borders — anywhere they could — as Russia invaded.
The war in Ukraine has since led to the largest refugee crisis in Europe since World War II, and one of the fastest large-scale displacements in history.
Seeing so many at risk and in need including 50% of HIAS staff in Ukraine that are displaced themselves, HIAS rushed experts to the region and partnered with trusted local organizations to meet the needs of those impacted by this conflict, including:
Distributing cash, food, and hygiene kits, as well as providing free legal aid and mental health counseling through the Ukrainian non-profit we helped create, Right to Protection (R2P).
Providing mental health support services to asylum seekers, refugees, and other vulnerable populations impacted by the conflict and helping local service providers care for more people in need.
Supporting safe spaces for LGBTQ people and women with children in Lviv and Chernivtsi, where shelters offer mental health consultations, legal aid, and food assistance.
These lifesaving efforts have become central to our mission. But sadly, one year later, our work is far from over. With basic services disrupted throughout Ukraine, many people — especially women and children, people with disabilities, LGBTQ, and non-citizens — are still having trouble accessing the food, water, and medicine they need to survive.
