In the Eastern Ukrainian city of Kramatorsk, near the front lines of the ongoing conflict, an unassuming organization called Svitanok has become a haven for society’s most vulnerable. As the warm weather arrives, the group’s doors open wide, offering a listening ear, a warm beverage, and a safe space for sex workers, drug addicts, and those living with HIV.
The Svitanok organization, founded in 2015, has made it its mission to provide support and resources to the marginalized individuals who often fall through the cracks of traditional social services. “These are people who have been pushed to the fringes of our community,” explains Olena Strokous, the coordinator of Svitanok. “They face discrimination, stigma, and a lack of access to the most basic necessities. Our goal is to let them know that they are not alone, and that there is help available.”
Within the walls of the Svitanok center, visitors can find refuge from the harsh realities of life on the streets. The organization offers a range of services, including medical consultations, psychological counseling, and referrals to social welfare programs. For many, it is the only place where they can openly discuss their struggles without fear of judgment or rejection.
“When I first came here, I was at the lowest point of my life,” recalls Olga, a former sex worker who now volunteers at Svitanok. “I had lost everything – my home, my family, my sense of self-worth. But the people here listened to me, they understood me, and they helped me take the first steps towards recovery. Now, I want to pay that kindness forward and support others who are in the same position I was.”
The work of Svitanok is especially vital in a region that has been ravaged by conflict for the past eight years. The ongoing war in Eastern Ukraine has exacerbated the challenges faced by the most vulnerable, with many losing access to essential healthcare and social services. In this environment, the organization’s holistic approach to supporting individuals has become a vital lifeline.
“We don’t just offer a temporary solution,” says Strokous. “Our aim is to empower these individuals, to help them regain control of their lives and to reintegrate into the community. It’s a long and often difficult process, but we’re committed to walking alongside them every step of the way.”
As the sun sets over Kramatorsk, the Svitanok center continues to provide a beacon of hope for those who have been cast aside by society. For the city’s social outcasts, it is a place where they can find not just shelter, but also the support and understanding they need to begin their journey towards a brighter future.
