Ukraine and international partners coordinate launch of winter assistance for the most vulnerable population

The Ministry of Social Policy, Family and Unity of Ukraine, together with international humanitarian organizations, is moving to the practical implementation of the winter financial support mechanism and coordinating resources to ensure that assistance reaches those who need it most in time. This issue was discussed during a meeting between Denys Uliutin, Minister of Social Policy, Family and Unity of Ukraine, and representatives of the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), OCHA, and UNICEF.

The parties reviewed the implementation of Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No. 1084 of 3 September 2026, “Certain issues of providing assistance to the population during the 2026–2027 heating season from the funds of the account for humanitarian and other assistance to the civilian population under martial law in Ukraine and the funds of international and national organizations.”

“We are moving to the practical implementation of the winter support program for vulnerable categories of the population. It is now important to synchronize the state mechanism with humanitarian resources and clearly understand where assistance is already provided and where needs remain unmet. Our task is to ensure that support reaches people before winter risks become critical,” emphasized Denys Uliutin.

The Minister expressed gratitude to UNHCR for its active role in developing the mechanism, mobilizing donor financing for the Humanitarian Response and Resilience Account, and engaging humanitarian partners, including the Red Cross Society.

One of the key issues of the meeting was determining the actual level of financial coverage and the need for additional resources. To this end, the Ministry and humanitarian partners must agree on which organizations will provide support in which regions, how many households are already covered, and where financial or operational gaps remain.

Participants also discussed the creation of a joint monitoring tool that will allow regular updates on the number of applications received and verified, payments made, confirmed financing, the need for additional resources, and territories that remain uncovered.

The parties stressed the importance of clear coordination of work on the ground. Local authorities, especially in frontline regions, are already being engaged in the process. Communities have the most up‑to‑date information about the situation and people’s needs and can ensure effective contact with potential beneficiaries.

To ensure the successful launch of the mechanism, the parties agreed to continue technical coordination on data exchange. The Ministry of Social Policy, Family and Unity of Ukraine and UNHCR will maintain coordination with local authorities and other humanitarian partners to guarantee timely and targeted support for the most vulnerable people during the 2026–2027 heating season.