Lviv, a city famous as an architectural gem, became an important humanitarian centre during the war for those who had to flee their homes because of the war. In helping the refugees, the city is confronted with a wide range of social needs. There are huge queues of mothers and their children waiting patiently at the humanitarian aid or warm soup tents. Nevertheless, in the face of difficulties, Lviv's citizens and organisations are working together and maintaining solidarity.

 

When Olena's family arrived in the city, they had to live in a sports arena for a month. In a room separated by a partition, eight children slept on the floor. Later, they were put up in a state-funded hotel, sharing two rooms. Mum is happy that - "The hotel is much better. Now the children have beds."

The owner of the hotel-turned-shelter says it now accommodates two dozen people. The man regrets that the electricity supply is unstable, so candlelight is often used to help. Also, "We can't heat all these rooms".

It is the ambition of all parents to provide their children with security and the best possible living conditions, even if they have to bring them up in a war environment. Rooms that are heated or have electricity are not always so bad if children can sleep safely.