The first social dormitory for internally displaced persons from Mariupol has been opened in Dnipro

In Dnipro, the first social dormitory for internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Mariupol has been opened. This is a pilot project and the result of joint work between the mayors of both cities, the Donetsk military administration, the state, and donor partners. Dnipro’s experience will allow expanding this initiative to other communities and quickly provide housing for hundreds of Mariupol residents who currently need it the most.

A four-story building in one of Dnipro’s districts has been completely reconstructed – from the roof to the utilities. Now, there are 35 one- and two-room apartments for families from Mariupol. These are large families, families with a disabled child, families of Ukrainian soldiers who died or went missing in action.

“Today, a very large and important project is starting. Everyone has united for one purpose – to help our esteemed Mariupol residents. These are ordinary people from Mariupol, and a big thanks to them for their resilience. For enduring such difficult times that our community is going through today. And most importantly, the faith in the state of Ukraine is not lost,” said the head of Mariupol Vadym Boychenko, also noting that a year ago, the “I am Mariupol” center opened in Dnipro, which later developed into a powerful network in different regions.

Living in the dormitory is completely free – there is no rental fee. Each room will have all necessary furniture and appliances. Accessibility features are also taken into account.

Mariupol resident Olha and her family are already moving into their new home. Leaving their hometown, she, her husband, son, and mother first moved to Zaporizhia, and now their new home is in Dnipro: “A huge thanks to everyone who contributed to this project and gave us the opportunity to feel at home – among our Mariupol residents. To see familiar faces and feel our own significance.” The woman adds that after experiencing horrors, they are now learning to enjoy life again.

“For us, people have done everything. And we will be grateful to all those who were able to make our lives somewhat better,” added Olha’s mother, Liudmyla.

The building for residents has large children’s and household areas. In addition, a caregiver and a psychologist will work with the tenants. The Rinat Akhmetov Foundation, the “Proleska” Humanitarian Mission with the support of the Humanitarian Fund for Ukraine of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, and the International Organization for Migration significantly helped the dormitory with this and other projects.

Photo: Dnipro City Council.