Building Bridges in Donetsk

Date: February 20, 2025

NP Launches Donetsk Volunteer Hub in Kramatorsk

Two people appear to be signing or writing a message on a Ukrainian flag.

On 22 January 2025, Nonviolent Peaceforce (NP)'s Ukraine programme launched the NP Donestk Volunteer Hub (NP DON HUB) in Kramatorsk. This initiative aims to bring together humanitarian workers, international organisations, and local authorities to address humanitarian challenges in the Donetsk region.

NP Ukraine staff gathered together with local community partners. They are sitting in a circle while at a meeting indoors.

The hub offers a collaborative space for coordination, resource sharing, and discussions on bridging gaps in humanitarian efforts. With the region facing extreme challenges in protecting civilians and access to humanitarian aid, this launch signifies a critical step toward enhancing support for affected communities.

NP Ukraine staff works with local community partners. Two people are standing while working at a tall white table and mid-discussion.

"This hub symbolises the importance of maintaining humanitarian support in Donetsk," said Tanya Walmsley, NP’s Head of Mission. "It is an incredibly difficult time, but it’s also the time to be here, on the ground, showing support. The hub will serve as a space for frontline responders to coordinate, train, and share resources to better protect civilians."

The concept of the NP DON HUB builds on the success of a similar initiative in Kherson, launched in 2023. The hub aligns with NP’s mission of unarmed civilian protection, working side-by-side with communities to break cycles of violence and protect civilians affected by violence.

NP Ukraine staff works with local community partners. They are handling flyers and sharing information at a meeting indoors.

Staff member of NP Ukraine workers with a local community partner, they are looking down at a phone.

The launch drew a diverse group of participants, including local NGOs “Angels of Salvation” and “Mission Breath of Hope” as well as INGOs such as Acted, the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) and the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC).

Oleksandr Shevchenko, Deputy Head of the Donetsk Oblast Military Administration, emphasised the importance of collaboration: "Many volunteers are eager to help, but some challenges require local authority support. This hub will provide a vital platform for coordination and ensuring that efforts are effective."

In addition to being a centre for collaboration, the hub will also provide a safe space for local humanitarian workers to rest and recharge amidst the demanding conditions of the frontline region.

The NP DON HUB is a testament to the power of unity and the enduring commitment of humanitarian actors to serve those most in need in Donetsk.

NP Ukraine staff member stands beside a local community partner. They are smiling as they stand in an indoor kitchen vicinity.

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