February 19, 2024 – As February 24th marks the somber anniversary of the escalation of conflict in Ukraine, the world reflects on two years of relentless turmoil, suffering and devastation. The ongoing war has brought unprecedented challenges, leaving millions on the frontlines grappling with fear, uncertainty and dire living conditions. CARE is especially alarmed about the situation of those over 3.3 million people—including 800,000 children—who are living close to the frontlines.
In the eastern and southern regions of Ukraine, over 3 million people endure daily the harrowing reality of shelling and scarcity. Stripped of basic amenities, many are confined to cold, dark basements, facing the constant threat of violence and displacement. The toll on civilian infrastructure has been catastrophic, with 1,523 medical facilities, 1,600 schools, and nearly 400 bridges reduced to rubble. Vital utilities such as electricity and water supply have been decimated, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The destruction has left nearly 720,000 people in the worst-affected parts of Ukraine with no access to adequate and safe housing. Over the last two years, the conflict has internally displaced nearly four million people. In total, 14.6 million, roughly 40 percent of Ukraine’s population, will require humanitarian assistance in 2024, according to the UN humanitarian response plan.
The impact of this war has been particularly devastating for women and girls. With families torn apart, childcare facilities scarce, schools shuttered and social services diminished, they have shouldered an increasing burden of unpaid care responsibilities, particularly for children and elderly relatives.
Moreover, the pervasive lack of security, stability and control over one’s own life, compounded by the overwhelming need for support, has given rise to a myriad of psychological challenges. While addressing basic needs is imperative, it is equally crucial to prioritize psychological well-being to restore a sense of harmony amidst the chaos of conflict.
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Background on CARE’s assistance
CARE initiated its operations in Ukraine in March 2022. Over the past two years, CARE’s programs have reached over 1.2 million individuals, providing them with essentials for survival. Initially focused on housing and basic needs for internally displaced persons, CARE is now increasingly addressing psychological support, gender-based violence, conflict-related violence, housing rehabilitation and women’s leadership development in emergencies. CARE strengthens institutional capacities in frontline regions, working to restore water supply networks and provide municipal services with new equipment to ensure quality and essential services to the population.
CARE has spokespeople available. For media inquiries, please contact:
Media Relations
CARE Canada
media@care.ca
About CARE Canada:
Founded in 1945 with the creation of the CARE Package ℠, CARE is a leading humanitarian organization working around the globe to save lives, defeat poverty, and achieve social justice. CARE puts women and girls at the centre of our work because we know we cannot overcome poverty until all people have equal rights and opportunities. CARE develops solutions alongside women and girls to lift themselves, their families, and communities out of poverty and out of crisis. CARE works in over 100 countries around the world.
To learn more about CARE Canada, visit care.ca.