SupportAmidst the ongoing war and dire humanitarian situation in Ukraine’s frontline areas, most seriously ill and elderly people have been left to face their profound challenges alone. Having lost their homes or loved ones, those physically unable to care for themselves are now in an extremely vulnerable position. This is a painful reality — one we in Ukraine feel deeply every single day.
The immense responsibility for supporting these individuals has largely been taken up by civil society organizations, charitable foundations, local communities, and simply compassionate people. They work tirelessly to provide the most basic conditions for a dignified life and proper care, striving to ensure that no one feels abandoned, forgotten, or alone.
This contrast is especially striking when we look at Japan’s example — a country where elderly people live long, high-quality lives, supported by both the state and society. In Japan, caring for older generations is a natural and integral part of the culture.
Our acquaintance with Ryutaro-san and Esashi-san began in October of last year when these incredibly kind-hearted individuals visited Kyiv. During their visit, they brought us specialized creams and warm leg warmers for elderly people living in frontline areas, as well as for those who are bedridden due to serious illness.
In our meeting, they sincerely asked: “Is there anything else people need help with?” We didn’t hesitate to respond: adult diapers, underpads, and hygiene products are among the items we consistently receive urgent requests for. Ryutaro-san and Esashi-san promptly purchased everything needed, and thanks to their generosity, the humanitarian aid was dispatched to the Mykolaiv, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia regions.
But their support didn’t stop there. Recently, our Japanese partners donated another $5,000, which we immediately used to purchase a new batch of essential supplies: adult diapers, underpads, cleansing lotions, and wet wash gloves.
This vital aid has already been delivered to people in the Mykolaiv region – specifically to those who are in urgent need of support right now.
Japan and Ukraine are countries separated by thousands of kilometers, but as this example beautifully illustrates, kind hearts know no distance or borders.
We are sincerely grateful to Ryutaro-san, Esashi-san, and all our other friends in Japan for their unwavering generosity, unwavering support, and profound care for those in need.
