Ann-Claire Dufay, UNICEF Representative in Ukraine, visited a family-type children’s home (FTCH) in Lviv, where children with disabilities are being raised.
The establishment of this home was the result of a successful collaboration between the Lviv Children’s Service and Ridni Foundation, with the support of UNICEF.
Together with Mariana Romaniak, CEO of Ridni Foundation, Nienke Voppen, Head of the UNICEF Lviv Regional Office, Iryna Kulynych, Deputy Mayor of Lviv, and Volodymyr Frydrak, Head of the Children’s Service, they visited the family of Maryna Boronina. Maryna is a foster mother who has opened her heart and home to five children.
During the meeting, Maryna shared her family’s story, discussing their daily life, the challenges they face, and the systemic support the children receive. In addition to parental care, the family is supported by specialists who assist the children with their development and adaptation.
Ann-Claire Dufay emphasized the strategic importance of family-based care and similar initiatives for children who require specialized attention and support.
It is deeply valuable to us to have partners who support the development of family-based care in Ukraine. It is through this cooperation that we can create more than just safe conditions for children – we can provide them with a true home and a nurturing environment, – stated Mariana Romaniak, CEO of Ridni Foundation.
Such visits confirm that the combined efforts of the community, international organizations, and the charitable sector can change children’s lives today, ensuring their right to be raised in a loving family.
