A week after the devastating destruction of the Kakhovka Dam in Khersonska Oblast, the Caritas humanitarian aid programs in southern Ukraine are tirelessly continuing their efforts to provide assistance in areas where humanitarian access remains extremely limited.
The receding floodwaters, now measuring just above 2 metres in some areas, down from the 5.6-metre peak on 8 June, have revealed the immense devastation left behind. The true scale of casualties remains unconfirmed but the disaster has led to soaring humanitarian needs, particularly for water, food, and access to health services. With the anticipation of further evacuations in the days ahead, the number of displaced individuals is expected to rise.
Caritas Ukraine and Caritas-Spes Ukraine have launched a comprehensive humanitarian response in southern Ukraine to address the large-scale crisis. An emergency response headquarters has been immediately established to enforce collaboration with local Caritas, such as Caritas Kryvyj Rih, Caritas Mykolaiv, Caritas Kamianske, Caritas Kolomyia, Caritas Zaporizhzhia, and Caritas Odesa in providing emergency assistance.
As of June 12, Caritas Ukraine has distributed around 80,000 litres of drinking water and dispatched generators to power water extraction pumps to provide electricity to affected areas. Hygiene and food kits have been sent for distribution and Caritas teams are stationed at train stations to offer immediate assistance to evacuees.
Caritas-Spes Ukraine, particularly Caritas-Spes Odesa, actively participated in the evacuation and has been providing aid to affected villages. Humanitarian supplies, including food, water, hygiene products, clothing and psychological support were dispatched to the flooded areas.
In the midst of this alarming situation, Caritas Internationalis aligns with the recent plea expressed by Pope Francis: “Peace is possible if it is truly desired!” This message was conveyed yesterday in Geneva by His Eminence Cardinal Parolin, in conjunction with the 2023 World of Work Summit “Global Coalition for Social Justice: Social Justice for All”.
In harmony with this plea, Caritas Ukraine and Caritas-Spes Ukraine reassert their dedication to fostering peace and social justice in Ukraine.
Read the full message of Pope Francis clicking by here.