Two young adults are rescued from the temporarily occupied territory

As part of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s Bring Kids Back UA initiative, the Ukrainian Child Rights Network and Humanity Funds have jointly helped return 18-year-old Oleksandr* and 23-year-old Oksana* from the temporarily occupied territory.

The journey home was challenging for both of them.

Oleksandr, 18, had spent a long time under occupation. Leaving involved serious risks, including the threat of forced conscription into the Russian army. It was therefore essential for the team to carefully plan a safe route and help him return to Ukraine.

Oksana, 23, was returning with her mother. Oksana has a disability and uses a wheelchair, so her needs had to be taken into account when preparing for the journey, including finding transport suitable for a long trip.

Together with Humanity Funds, specialists from the Ukrainian Child Rights Network organised a route that enabled Oksana and her mother to make the journey safely.

They are now on their way to Vinnytsia, where Oksana’s older sister and her husband are waiting for them and will support the family during the initial stages of settling into their new home.

A new chapter of life lies ahead, including adaptation and gradually regaining a sense of safety. For the team supporting returns, it is important not only to help people leave the occupied territory, but also to ensure that each person’s individual circumstances and needs are taken into account throughout the process.

*Names have been changed for security reasons.