A regional forum of Resilience Centers took place in Zhytomyr

A regional forum of Resilience Centers was held in Zhytomyr, bringing together representatives from 24 communities across Ukraine. The event served as a platform for sharing experiences, strengthening partnerships, and improving approaches to providing psychosocial support to Ukrainians.

Resilience Centers are an initiative of the Ministry of Social Policy of Ukraine, implemented as part of the nationwide mental health program "How Are You?" initiated by First Lady Olena Zelenska in partnership with non-governmental organizations. In particular, the Zhytomyr Resilience Center operates with the support of the BGV Charity Fund. Each such center helps people cope with the traumatic experiences of war, adapt to difficult circumstances, and preserve their psycho-emotional health.

"Nearly 70% of our population reports that their mental health has deteriorated due to Russia's full-scale invasion. This initiative – Resilience Centers – was truly implemented to help us build a community that unites us, that helps us develop shared values," noted Iryna Postolovska, Deputy Minister of Social Policy for European Integration.

The forum discussed strategies for working with IDPs, veterans, and military families, as well as successful practices from various regions.

"In just over a year of operation, the Zhytomyr Resilience Center has served nearly 8,000 people. We have launched groups for mothers, military personnel, and volunteers, and we conduct individual consultations daily. All of this is thanks to a team of strong specialists," shared Polina Aldoshina, director of the BGV Charity Fund, which supports the Zhytomyr Center.

The forum became a platform for interaction between representatives of the Ministry of Social Policy, regional and local authorities, and Resilience Center teams.

"It is very gratifying that the Resilience Centers forum is taking place in Zhytomyr. People with big hearts have gathered here to share experiences and support one another. It is important to expand the reach of such centers across Ukraine," emphasized Vitaliy Bunechko, head of the Zhytomyr Regional Military Administration.

Following the forum, a development plan for the network was outlined, including the opening of new Centers.