In Zaporizhzhia, a renovated Social Adaptation Center “Artak” opened to provide temporary housing and humanitarian support for IDPs

In Zaporizhzhia, Minister of Social Policy, Family and Unity of Ukraine Denys Ulyutin and UN Humanitarian Coordinator Matthias Schmale inaugurated the renovated Social Adaptation Center of the charitable organization “Artak.”

“Our previous visit to Artak marked the beginning of important changes. We have introduced two new services for low-mobility groups among IDPs — nursing care to support health recovery during the first month and assisted living services that help with daily needs. Both services are financed from the state budget,” said Denys Ulyutin, Minister of Social Policy, Family and Unity of Ukraine.

The Artak organization provides first aid and humanitarian assistance, offers temporary shelter, and arranges transportation for persons with limited mobility to medical facilities.

Through cooperation with UN system organizations, Ukraine ensures comprehensive support for vulnerable population groups, strengthening people’s social resilience in the most challenging circumstances.

A key milestone in this partnership was the completion of significant renovations and the opening of the “Artak – Beyond Limits” Social Adaptation Center, which now serves as a safe and inclusive space for persons with disabilities and older people. The Center currently accommodates 53 residents.

“In times of ongoing war, displaced people, those with disabilities or limited mobility, including older people, women and children, are facing the heaviest burden. As winter approaches, their needs become even more urgent. Jointly with the Ukrainian government, partners, and donors, we must support them, from safe evacuation and dignified shelter to durable solutions and being fully integrated members of the community,” emphasized Matthias Schmale, UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Ukraine.

He added that the UN will continue supporting initiatives that unite government institutions, communities, charities, and international partners to achieve a shared goal — helping people recover from the consequences of war.

Since 2022, the organization “Artak: Together Towards the Dream” has evacuated more than 12,100 people, including over 8,600 older persons and persons with disabilities. Volunteers provide humanitarian and medical assistance, temporary shelter, and transportation for people with reduced mobility to healthcare institutions, ensuring access to essential services.

It should be recalled that the Ministry of Social Policy allocated a UAH 1 billion subvention from the state budget to repair and adapt temporary housing facilities in line with the needs of low-mobility groups. The funds were distributed proportionally among the regions based on the number of registered internally displaced persons. Zaporizhzhia Oblast received UAH 18 million under this program.

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