For the past 20 years, Palladium has committed 1.5 percent of its profit before tax to global giving platform “Let’s Make it Possible.” Through this platform and in partnership with the Kyeema Foundation, Palladium funds humanitarian relief efforts to respond to disasters.

For families displaced by war, even a moment of relief can be invaluable. Since Russia began its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, millions have been forced to flee their homes, seeking safety in unfamiliar places while grappling with loss and uncertainty. Among them are thousands of mothers and children, carrying the psychological weight of war.

For 242 of these mothers and children, Sincere Heart’s “Recovery Camp” initiative has provided a rare and much-needed opportunity to heal, connect, and regain a sense of normalcy. The series of one-day rehabilitation camps offered psychological support, community-building activities, and moments of joy for families navigating immense hardship.

A Safe Space for Healing

The trauma of war doesn’t end when families escape immediate danger. For many, displacement brings continued challenges—separation from loved ones, uncertainty about the future, and the daily burden of rebuilding life in an unfamiliar environment. These stressors can have long-term effects, particularly on children.

Recognizing this, Sincere Heart, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting Ukrainians, launched the Recovery Camp initiative to provide psychological and social support to displaced families. With financial backing from Palladium’s Humanitarian Relief Fund and logistical assistance from the Kyeema Foundation, the camps were designed to address both emotional and social needs. Through a carefully structured program, participants engaged in physical activities, art therapy, and group discussions aimed at reducing stress and fostering resilience. The impact was immediate.

“We spent the day like in a fairy tale, forgetting about our problems… like in peacetime. A 100% reboot,” shares one mother who attended the camp with her child.

Connection in a Time of Isolation

For many families, one big challenge of displacement is the sense of isolation that comes with leaving everything you knew behind. Social networks are fractured, and support systems are often splintered. The Recovery Camps provided more than just a temporary escape – they helped families build new connections.

“At the camp, I met new people with similar experiences,” explains one participant. “For the first time in a long time, I opened up. You realize that you are not alone, and it works as a support – it becomes easier for you.”

This sense of belonging is crucial. Beyond the structured activities, the camps fostered informal support networks that many families will continue to rely on long after the sessions end.

Real Impact, Real Change

Every smile, every tear, and every burst of laughter at the Recovery Camps showed healing in action. And the data confirms this impact: an overwhelming 99% of families felt genuinely supported in the camp’s compassionate environment, and 98% said they would recommend the camp to others. Mothers were able to connect with a community who understood their experiences, while children rediscovered the joy of play.

In one-on-one sessions, facilitators identified children who needed extra care, referring eight families to free online therapy. These referrals provided a crucial lifeline, offering a pathway to sustained emotional support beyond the camp sessions. Investing in mental health and community support is essential in times of crisis, ensuring that families don’t just survive displacement but have the tools to rebuild emotionally.

As Ukraine’s humanitarian crisis continues, initiatives like these offer a blueprint for sustained support, not just in the immediate aftermath of war but in the long journey toward healing and stability. With continued investment and collaboration, these programs can expand to reach even more families in need. For families navigating the uncertainty of displacement, these moments of connection and care can be life changing, providing not just relief, but a renewed sense of hope.