“🌟 **A Heartfelt Reflection on the 'Healing Through Art' Program** 🌟

Hello, everyone! My name is Natalia Ihnatovska, and I am the proud mother of Ksenia, a young girl who recently participated in the transformative ‘Healing Through Art’ art-therapy project. Our family’s journey has been challenging, especially since we were forced to leave our hometown of Sloviansk in Donetsk region due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

In 2022, as Russia’s military aggression intensified, the safety of our family was at stake, leading us to relocate to the city of Bila Tserkva. While this move offered a safer environment, it also ushered in a difficult period for Ksenia. The displacement took a toll on her emotional well-being, and despite continuing her studies online, I could see that she was struggling. The lack of positive interaction and a nurturing environment made her feel isolated in her new circumstances.

This past summer, Ksenia had the opportunity to attend a tent camp organized with the financial support of UCARE, Inc. As a mother, I must admit I had my concerns about the camp, primarily due to limited information about the organizers. Ksenia's emotional state and behavior had been challenging, leading to worries about how she'd adjust to the camp environment. However, my fears soon turned to relief when I saw how much Ksenia thrived in the camp. She frequently communicated with me, sharing how well she was treated and how much she enjoyed the various activities.

The camp experience was pivotal for Ksenia. She returned home with a calm demeanor, new friendships, and a sense of belonging that she desperately needed. Inspired by the positive changes I witnessed in her, I encouraged Ksenia to engage in the art therapy program, which featured a range of creative activities facilitated by talented students. These sessions provided her with a comforting space to reconnect with the friends she made at camp while also engaging in artistic expression.

Through the art therapy program, I observed significant improvements in Ksenia’s social skills and emotional stability. The sessions were always enjoyable for her, filled with diverse and engaging projects that she eagerly looked forward to. As a mother, I cannot express enough gratitude to UCARE, Inc. for their unwavering dedication to supporting Ukrainian children facing such profound challenges. Your commitment to social projects is making a tangible difference, transforming the lives of children who are navigating the psychological and emotional turmoil of war.

I wholeheartedly believe in the importance of sustained involvement in programs like these. Ksenia's progress is a testament to the fact that long-term support yields effective and meaningful results. I am hopeful for Ksenia’s continued participation in initiatives organized by UCARE, Inc. Together, we can foster healing and create brighter futures for our children.

Thank you for taking the time to read our story. Let’s continue to support one another and uplift the spirits of every child in need. 💙💛 #HealingThroughArt #UCARE #SupportUkrainianChildren #Resilience #ArtTherapy #TogetherWeHeal