More than 100 communities have joined the Plich-o-Plich (Side by Side - ed.) project, said Oleksii Kuleba, Deputy Prime Minister for Restoration of Ukraine, Minister for Communities and Territories Development, at the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities under the President of Ukraine.

The initiative is aimed at increasing cohesion projects within the country - when the rear and more capable partner communities support and help the frontline and outpost communities under constant enemy fire.

“Today, each community has its particular potential, and it is our common task to identify and utilize it. This is how we will unite Ukrainians, communities and the whole country. Thanks to the Plich-o-Plich project, we are not only restoring damaged settlements, but also forming strong horizontal ties between communities. This cohesion is our strength and the key to victory,” emphasized Oleksii Kuleba during the presentation.

The project provides for the following:

- restoration of infrastructure, including repair of damaged houses, schools, hospitals and other social infrastructure facilities;

- humanitarian aid, including providing communities with equipment for energy independence;

- cultural, educational and sports events to strengthen social ties and engage young people.

As of today, more than 100 communities have joined the Plich-o-Plich project and 51 memorandums of partnership have been signed. Another 114 community hubs need support from partners. In 2025, it is planned to restore more than 10,000 infrastructure facilities and expand support programs for frontline regions.

“Every community at the rear can become a partner for a frontline settlement, and our common goal is to help make this happen. Today I would like to emphasize the importance of this project once again and invite everyone to join the initiative,” emphasized Oleksii Kuleba.

The results of the pilot phase demonstrated the effectiveness of the initiative: last year, 15 regions restored more than 1,500 buildings in Kherson region. The cooperation is still ongoing: communities not only help with the reconstruction, but also organize programs for children from the affected regions.

Detailed information on participation in the Plich-o-Plich project is available on the official website.