This led to the creation of the Development Space for the Elderly People, “Preserving Experiences and Opening New Horizons”, which was established by Kushuhum Settlement Council’s Development Agency with the support of U-LEAD with Europe.
“In these difficult times, we must not forget those who have dedicated their entire lives to their families and municipality. This Space has become a meeting place where senior citizens can feel needed, find new friends and de-stress,” says Volodymyr Sosunovskyi, the Head of Kushuhum Settlement Council.
The project was launched in March 2024, and for over a year now, the Space has been welcoming visitors every day, proving that it is possible to create sustainable social initiatives even on the frontline.
It quickly became a place of genuine warmth and care. Here you can chat over a cup of tea, make new friends, learn how to use a computer or smartphone and join in on workshops or exercise classes.
Valentyna, who moved here from Polohy District, shares her story:
“When I first came here, I felt warmth and genuine kindness. The Space gave me new friends, yoga classes and the feeling that life goes on. I am most grateful for the social bus that picks us up from all the villages and brings us to activities. For me, it is not just a venue but a place of strength and joy.”
The Director of the Space, Viktoriia Kryvenko, also emphasises the importance of this sort of places:
“This is a space for our dear ladies and gentlemen of respectable age. Not only do we preserve the experience of generations here, but we also help to open new horizons. From art therapy and sports to consultations and trainings — everything to support active lifestyles, health and socialisation. The Space is alive and running every day, continuing to serve the municipality.”
Hanna from Kushuhum told us how learning digital literacy had changed her life:
“Even at a senior age, you can master technology — and that’s inspiring! Now I pay for utilities online, use the Internet and feel up with the times and independent again. It’s priceless.”
Since the outset of the full-scale invasion, Kushuhum municipality has accommodated over 3,000 internally displaced persons. It currently has a population of over 17,500, of whom about 4,700 are senior citizens. It is crucial for them to have a place where they can get advice or medical help, as well as feel part of a community.
“The Space has truly become a hub of activity. It offers counselling, legal assistance, and meetings with young people. The support of U-LEAD with Europe allowed us to implement this idea and create a point of attraction for the entire municipality,” adds Volodymyr Sosunovskyi.
The space continues to grow, and its life is fuelled by volunteers and partners who help organise events and provide additional services, ranging from legal advice to psychological support.
Tetiana Bordyug, the Head of the Regional Office of U-LEAD with Europe in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, highlighted this case for other municipalities:
“The Space was created as part of U-LEAD’s activities based on the principle of ‘Leaving No One Behind’. I’m delighted to see that not only does it operate independently, but it also promotes municipal cohesion. A Youth Space has already opened nearby, and the next step may be a Children’s Centre. This proves that the chosen goal is correct and the project is sustainable.”
The Space in Kushuhum municipality has come to symbolise how a small initiative can change the lives of an entire generation. It has not only given support and new opportunities to the elderly, but has also become a successful role model. This proves that by combining the efforts of the municipality, government and partners, we can create safe places for communication, learning and growth that have been operating and are still relevant for over a year, even in the difficult conditions of war.
