Ministry of Social Policy, Family and Unity, in synergy with Ukrainian Red Cross prepare joint support algorithms as part of preparations for the winter

The Ministry of Social Policy, Family and Unity of Ukraine and the Ukrainian Red Cross are pooling resources for early winter preparation and the development of the volunteer movement. These issues were discussed during a meeting on July 27.

The main topic of the meeting was coordination of actions in preparation for the upcoming winter period, with the joint task of designing mechanisms to promptly identify needs and ensure timely delivery of necessary assistance to the population.

Last winter, the Ministry of Social Policy, Family and Unity and the Ministry of Internal Affairs introduced a joint response system for appeals from vulnerable population groups.

In humanitarian response, the state is moving from ad hoc solutions to sustainable mechanisms of targeted financial support. Through the Humanitarian Account, the Ministry of Social Policy, Family and Unity directed payments of UAH 6,500 to families with children with subgroup A disabilities living in frontline areas. In total, more than UAH 50 million has already been transferred to recipients’ accounts.

The second key issue was the implementation of the State Target Program for the Development of Volunteer Activities until 2030. As noted by Minister of Social Policy, Family and Unity Denys Uliutin, plans include establishing a project office for volunteer development within the Ministry. Representatives of the Red Cross confirmed their readiness to provide necessary support for the practical implementation of the program and full operation of the office.

The parties also discussed expanding cooperation in the provision of social services. The Ministry of Social Policy, Family and Unity has created a new segment of the social services market, particularly in resilience-building. Today, 84% of service providers are teams formed by civil society institutions. In 16 territorial communities, the Ukrainian Red Cross is the provider of comprehensive resilience-building social services.

“I am convinced that we are ready to move from individual joint projects to long-term partnership. The Red Cross should become our permanent partner in the development of social services, volunteering, and support for people in crisis situations,” summarized Denys Uliutin.