Razom and Stabnet Continue to Deliver Vital Mobile Stabilization Units

Published: October 16, 2024

In today’s modern warfare, the need for rapid, life-saving medical care is more urgent than ever. Stabnet’s mobile stabilization units provide an innovative solution, delivering emergency medical care even in the most difficult and dangerous conditions. Razom was among the first to support this project, and 14 of these mobile medical units have now been deployed to Ukraine’s front lines, safeguarding lives where they are needed most.

Recently, another Stabnet unit was successfully handed over to the medical team of Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) in Kyiv. This significant milestone was made possible through the generous contributions of donors from around the globe. The handover ceremony brought together representatives from Razom, Stabnet, and the distinguished French military expert and blogger, Xavier Tytelman. Thanks to the support of Agir Ensemble Pour l’Ukraine, AFUCA, and Unis pour l’Ukraine, this delivery marks yet another vital step in enhancing emergency medical capacity on the front lines.

Stabnet is a fully equipped mobile operating room, designed to provide immediate life-saving interventions without the delay of transporting patients. At just two tons, the lightweight unit can be transported by a pickup truck or SUV, allowing it to reach the most remote and hard-to-access areas.

Ihor Dobrovolsky, head of Stabnet, expressed his gratitude: “We are incredibly thankful to Razom for Ukraine for their continued belief in and support of this project. Without their help, Stabnet might not have become a reality.”

The results are impressive as one stabilization point can save up to 100 lives each month. As Razom Heroes project manager, Hennadiy Zabolotnyishared, “This project is critical in times of war because it saves lives. There was one instance where 17 people were treated in a single day, giving them a chance at survival.”

Stabnet mobile stabilization points showcase how innovative solutions can be used to safeguard lives, even in the most extreme conditions. Thanks to the unwavering support of compassionate individuals and organizations, life-saving medical care reaches those in need on the front lines.

Razom for Ukraine is dedicated to working with Stabnet to further develop and enhance this critical system. Each deployed stabilization unit plays a vital role in saving lives on the front lines.

Together, we are making a real difference!

Supporting Ukraine’s Mental Health: The Impact of Razom z Toboyu

Published: October 10, 2024

Today, October 10, marks World Mental Health Day, a timely reminder of the importance of mental well-being, especially for those affected by war. In Ukraine, where the trauma of war has deeply impacted millions, the Razom z Toboyu (Razom with You) program is offering critical psychological support to children, adolescents, and adults.

For this Mental Health Day, we had the opportunity to interview Iryna Gudyma, Razom z Toboyu (RzT) Project Manager, who reflected on the project’s mission:

1. Can you describe the mission and goals of the Razom z Toboyu project and how it addresses the mental health needs of Ukrainians affected by war?

Razom z Toboyu was born out of the urgent need to support Ukrainians grappling with the psychological toll of war. Since the launch in July 2022, we have conducted over 18,000 individual sessions and over 2,500 hours of group work.

Recent statistics suggest a deepening mental health crisis in Ukraine, exacerbated by ongoing war. Reports indicate that the number of Ukrainians seeking mental health support has surged, with 77% experiencing stress or severe nervousness and 40% feeling the need for psychological help in the past six months, according to Gradus. Furthermore, a study published in The Lancet found that 54% of Ukrainians, including refugees, are suffering from PTSD. The war has led to a staggering increase in antidepressant sales, which have jumped nearly 50% since 2021 (Ukrainian Ministry of Health).

We aim to provide accessible, high-quality psychological support to those affected by the war, whether they’re internally displaced, veterans, or families who’ve lost loved ones.

Our key goals are multifaceted. We work to prevent the development of long-term mental health disorders, particularly PTSD, among those experiencing war trauma. We look to stabilize people’s emotional states and help them tap into their inner resources for resilience.

Importantly, we’re also focused on building capacity within Ukraine’s mental health system by training professionals in trauma-informed care and developing innovative support programs.

What drives us is the belief that mental health care is crucial not just for individual well-being, but for Ukraine’s collective recovery and future. We’re committed to breaking down the stigma around seeking help and making mental health support a normalized, integral part of the country’s post-war healing process.

2. What specific services or resources does RZT provide to support mental health, and how have these been received by the community?

We offer a range of services tailored to the diverse needs we’re seeing. This includes individual counseling, group therapy sessions aimed at posttraumatic growth, specialized training for special groups including social workers, medical professionals, teachers, etc. We’ve also developed psychoeducation workshops to help people understand trauma responses and learn coping strategies.

The response from communities has been overwhelmingly positive as evidenced by an anonymous survey of over 450 participants who received support. For instance, 95% reported establishing a trusting relationship with their psychologist, while 74% noticed improvements in their emotional well-being. Impressively, 85% felt that their psychologist helped them cope with their specific issues, and all participants indicated they would recommend the “Razom z Toboyu” project to others.

Many people tell us they’ve never had access to mental health support before, or that they were hesitant to seek help until they learned about our services.

One service that’s been especially well-received is our growth groups that provide a safe space for people to share experiences and coping strategies with others who truly understand their situation. We’ve seen remarkable bonds form within these groups, creating support networks that extend beyond our formal sessions.

3. Could you share a memorable success story or experience from the RZT project that highlights its impact on individuals or families?

One of the many stories that struck me is that of an eight-year-old Mykyta from Mariupol. After escaping the besieged city, we discovered he had stopped eating meat because the smell reminded him of burnt bodies he’d witnessed during the war. This heartbreaking detail shows how deeply conflict affects children, creating fears that persist long after the immediate danger has passed.

Our psychologists worked closely with Mykyta and his family, helping them process their trauma and rediscover a sense of normalcy. His journey emphasizes the critical need for specialized mental health support for war-affected children. Mykyta’s progress reminds us that with the right care, even the deepest wounds can heal, allowing children to reclaim their childhoods and look towards a brighter future.

4. What challenges has RZT faced in delivering mental health support, and how have you worked to overcome them?

One of our most pressing challenges has been addressing the mental health needs of a country still at war, with an estimated 1.3 million veterans and projections of 4-6 million in the future. To tackle this, we’ve developed specialized programs for veterans and their families, focusing on preventing secondary traumatization and preparing society for their reintegration.

Another significant challenge is the sheer scale of need versus our resources. To tackle this, we’ve focused on a train-the-trainer model, where we work with social workers, teachers, medical professionals and community leaders, equipping them to provide ongoing support in their areas. This approach not only increases our capacity but also ensures culturally sensitive care tailored to the Ukrainian context.

The ongoing nature of the conflict poses unique challenges for treatment approaches. We’ve also had to be innovative by adapting evidence-based practices to the unique context of wartime Ukraine. This has involved developing shorter-term intervention models and integrating traditional Ukrainian cultural practices into our therapeutic approaches to make them more resonant and effective for our clients.

Additionally, we are actively working to combat the stigma surrounding mental health care by promoting awareness and offering free services that encourage individuals to seek help.

5. October 10th is Mental Health Day, what message do you want to convey to the community regarding the importance of mental health support for those affected by war in Ukraine?

On this Mental Health Day, I want to remind everyone that it’s absolutely okay not to be okay, especially during these challenging times. Prioritizing mental health isn’t a luxury—it’s essential for both individual and national resilience. If you or someone you know is struggling, please remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

The war has left deep scars on many hearts, but healing from trauma is possible. Reaching out for support is a vital step in the recovery process. For those not directly affected by the conflict, I urge you to show empathy, patience, and support for those who are struggling.

To the international community, I want to emphasize that the mental health impacts of this war will extend far beyond the physical conflict. Supporting mental health initiatives must be a key component of any long-term recovery and development plans for Ukraine.

Despite the immense challenges, we’ve witnessed incredible resilience and growth among the individuals and communities we work with. This gives me hope. By supporting one another and prioritizing mental health, I believe Ukrainians can not only recover from this trauma but emerge stronger and more united than ever before.

To learn more about Razom z Toboyu and support its mission, visit https://razomztoboyu.org/

The project is implemented by Razom for Ukraine, Americares, Direct Relief and GlobalGiving.

Don’t Miss – Intercepted at Film Forum Until October 10, 2024

Published: October 8, 2024

“At once subtle and blunt… [Intercepted shows] the awful intimacy of the war in Ukraine” – The New York Times

Razom Cinema’s grantee, a critically acclaimed documentary Intercepted launched their American theatrical release with a Film Forum series of screenings this past Saturday, October 5th.

Our Cinema Impact Producer, Polina Buchak, had the pleasure of moderating a Q&A with the award-winning director Oksana Karpovych in the iconic Film Forum theater. The evening featured a screening of Intercepted, a powerfully crafted documentary providing a visceral account of the full-scale Russian invasion by exposing the intercepted phone calls made by Russian soldiers to their families from Ukraine.

Film Forum is renowned for its legacy of excellent film programming, which has lasted for more than half a century. The Razom Cinema team was elated to be part of the program, made even more meaningful in light of our prior support of its premiere at the prestigious “New Directors/New Films” in New York.

Thank you to everyone who attended and presented your questions to the director. If you have yet to see this new Ukrainian documentary, head over to https://filmforum.org/film/intercepted to plan your visit. Don’t forget to use our promo code RAZOMXFF

Intercepted by Oksana Kaprovych is playing at Film Forum in NYC now through October 10th.

Photos: Dinara Khairova

Innovating for the Future: Razom for Ukraine and Himera Radios

Published: October 6, 2024

Since 2022, Razom has delivered over $100 million worth of humanitarian aid and programming in Ukraine. When procuring and delivering life-saving aid and technologies, we prioritize buying items made in Ukraine. We are dedicated to advancing Ukraine’s economy and technological potential by purchasing and distributing innovative Ukrainian-made products that drive progress and save lives. A prime example is Razom’s role as “early-adopter” of Himera radios, cutting-edge communication technology developed by Ukrainian engineers.

Supporting Life-Saving Technology
Himera radios are designed to ensure reliable communication in emergency scenarios. These high-quality devices provide dependable connections in challenging conditions, making them essential for first responders. Razom has purchased more than 2100 Himera radios, playing a meaningful role in launching this life-saving technology, which is now making waves in international markets.

Recently, Himera presented their latest G1 Pro L radios, and our Razom team had the opportunity to test them. The field tests were highly successful, confirming the reliability and effectiveness of Himera radios.

The success of Himera showcases how Ukrainian developers create products that compete globally and positively impact the economy. Misha Rudominski, Himera’s co-founder, emphasized the importance of our support: “We are incredibly grateful to Razom. Their support has allowed us to continue developing new versions of our radios, significantly enhancing our capabilities.”

📹 Watch our interview with Misha Rudominski to learn more about Himera’s development and work with Razom:

Impact on Emergency Response and Economic Growth
Himera radios are engineered to meet the demands of modern emergencies, including field and disaster scenarios. Their durability, multifunctionality, and reliability make them indispensable for first responders, volunteers, and civilians. Beyond their immediate applications, Himera radios contribute to the growth of Ukraine’s high-tech sector, creating jobs and inspiring other start-ups.

When Razom delivers on our program goals, we make an effort to “buy Ukrainian” because we believe that supporting local innovation is significant for Ukraine’s economic growth. By purchasing goods and services from domestic producers, we preserve jobs, stimulate local business development, and strengthen the national economy. Supporting Himera radios is a step towards contributing to a secure, prosperous, and democratic Ukraine.

Explore more about Himera at himeratech.com.

To support Razom’s efforts and help Ukraine, please donate today.

Razom for Ukraine Named in Forbes Ukraine’s Top 10 List of Nonprofits

Published: September 25, 2024

We’re proud to announce that Forbes Ukraine has ranked Razom for Ukraine 8th in its list of the Top 50 nonprofit organizations in Ukraine for 2023. This recognition highlights our ongoing efforts in providing humanitarian aid, supporting Ukraine’s civil society, and promoting Ukrainian culture worldwide.

Since the full-scale invasion, Razom has grown from an all-volunteer organization of dedicated activists to a community of 222,000+ supporters around the world. Together, we’ve delivered vital medical supplies, communication gear, evacuation transport, and more to Ukrainian heroes.

Our work spans five key areas:

Heroes: Delivering life-saving aid to first responders and frontline medics.

Health: Strengthening Ukraine’s healthcare system to serve people now and after victory.

Relief: Investing in grassroots NGOs that supply aid to vulnerable communities.

Advocacy: Advancing legislation and policy for Ukraine’s victory.

Connect: Promoting the vibrancy of Ukrainian voices through education, volunteering, and the arts.

We are honored to be recognized for our impact during such a critical time and remain committed to supporting Ukraine. Every donation brings us closer to a stronger, democratic Ukraine.

Join us today and support our mission!

Razom Delivers 11 Mobile Medical Units to Save Lives on the Front Lines

Published: September 18, 2024

Razom for Ukraine has provided 11 mobile medical stabilization units to Ukrainian first responders. These units provide immediate medical care right on the front lines, saving up to 100 lives per month. The project, called “Stabnet,” was made possible in collaboration with French partners.

This particular project addresses the critical need for rapid, on-the-ground medical care in hot zones. With these units, military medics can stabilize the injured and save lives in active war areas. Our partnership with French partner organizations provided not only co-funding but also key expertise in building mobile medical systems.

Taras Hatalyak, Razom Heroes Program Director, emphasizes:
“In these challenging times, mobile medical units are a lifeline for soldiers on the front lines. Each unit represents a chance for survival for those who are injured while defending our future. But we need more of these units. Your support is vital — every donation can help save a life.”

These mobile units are compact but powerful. Equipped with everything from infusion systems to respiratory equipment and medications, they can be deployed in minutes, allowing medics to provide critical care when every second counts.

“Each unit saves up to 100 lives per month in combat conditions, proving how essential they are. Unlike larger hospitals that can’t operate near the front lines, these mobile units can be positioned right where the need is most urgent,” said Gennadiy Zabolotnyi, who heads Razom’s mobile medical project.

Working with international partners, including France, not only provides technical and financial support but also demonstrates global solidarity with Ukraine. This coalitionis a powerful example of how collective efforts can save lives.

Razom has already delivered 11 mobile units to the frontlines, but the need is still critical. At least 50 more are required to meet the ongoing demands. With the war continuing, every additional unit represents another opportunity to save lives and help Ukraine persevere.

Thanks to cutting-edge technology and charitable contributions, Ukrainian soldiers have a better chance at survival. But these units are more than just medical stations — they are a symbol of the strength and commitment of everyone working toward Ukraine’s victory.

Together, we can make a difference and help Ukraine emerge stronger.

Razom Relief: From Summer to School

Published: September 18, 2024

As the school year begins and autumn approaches, we reflect on the impact of Razom Relief’s initiatives that have provided needed support, healthcare, and educational opportunities to children and communities across Ukraine. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, many have had the chance to rest, rejuvenate, and engage in activities that foster growth and resilience. We’re excited to share inspiring stories from those who have benefited from Razom’s grants and how these initiatives have helped prepare them for the new season and school year.

Center for Psychological and Humanitarian Support in the Chernivtsi Region

The Center for Psychological and Humanitarian Support (CPHS) for internally displaced people in Vyzhnytsia, Chernivtsi region, has been running several successful projects, including a social enterprise:a bakery. Razom is proud to partner with CPHS on a second joint project that has once again exceeded all expectations.

With a grant from Razom, the center sponsored a summer camp where children immersed themselves in adventures and learning, acquiring essential skills like orienteering, fire-starting, pitching tents, and cooking over open flames. The camp taught them teamwork, mutual support, and responsibility. The unforgettable experiences—new friendships, night hikes with flashlights, and laughter around campfires—served as a test of resilience and a perfect preparation for the new school year.

Creating Opportunities in Poltava

The NGO Sustainable Development Platform Perspective in the Poltava region, with Razom’s support, established a community center that has become a hub for children and youth. This space aims to empower young people by providing new knowledge, building connections, and fostering youth activism. Guided by mentors, the youth developed operational regulations and a strategic plan for the center’s growth in 2024-2025.

In just two months, the project reached over 2,500 people and hosted more than 60 events, including training sessions, workshops, physical activities, and community-building excursions, offering much-needed emotional relief and skill development.

Ukraine South Liberty: A Lifeline in Chornomorsk

In the southern regions, the Ukraine South Liberty organization in Chornomorsk, Odesa region, worked tirelessly to support children’s health and well-being. With a grant from Razom, they launched two critical projects: an IDP (Internally Displaced People) center and a children’s center. The IDP center offers services like career counseling, psychological support, IT training, and cultural events, while the children’s center focuses on holistic development through activities promoting inclusivity, gender equality, and psychological well-being.

Building Ukraine Together Youth Camp in the North

Supported by a Razom grant, Building Ukraine Together (BUR) gathered young participants from across Ukraine to aid in infrastructure restoration, create spaces for learning and connection, and support internally displaced persons. At the BUR camp in Ladanska, Chernihiv region, young people worked to build a youth center, helping the community recover from occupation and fostering a sense of hope and renewal.

As we embrace the fall season, these stories of readiness for the new school year and the positive impact of Razom’s grants remind us of the power of community and the difference we can make together. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our donors—your continued support sustains these efforts, bringing hope and renewal to countless lives.

Stay tuned for more updates and stories from Razom Relief!

Razom Volunteers Targeted in Airstrikes While Delivering Aid in Sumy Region

Published: September 13, 2024

On the morning of September 13, Razom’s volunteers came under heavy airstrikes while delivering humanitarian aid to Yampil Hospital in the Sumy region. As they were unloading supplies, two air-dropped bombs (KABs) exploded just 100 meters from the hospital. Thankfully, the volunteers and hospital staff escaped serious injury. However, the hospital’s windows were shattered, and vehicles, along with the much-needed aid, were damaged by shrapnel.

Immediately after the attack, the hospital began receiving injured civilians, mainly women, children, and the elderly. Under extremely difficult conditions, the medical staff provided urgent care, even relocating to the hospital’s basement for safety.

Yampil, located just 7 miles from the Russian border, has been enduring nearly daily airstrikes, according to local residents.

In response to the worsening situation in Sumy and nearby regions, Razom for Ukraine launched an emergency program to supply hospitals in Sumy with essential medications, orthopedic equipment, and other critical materials. With today’s delivery to Yampil and previous deliveries to Sumy, Khotin, Shostka, and Hlukhiv, Razom has now provided nearly 10 tons of humanitarian aid, valued at $200,000.

Razom needs your help!

Innocent Ukrainians and volunteers are being targeted while delivering humanitarian aid. Let’s also remember the recent Red Cross tragedy on September 12, where three workers lost their lives in a similar attack.

Support Razom for Ukraine to replace the damaged vehicle and continue delivering life-saving aid across Ukraine. Every contribution saves lives!

Razom for Ukraine and The Howard G. Buffett Foundation: Delivering Lifesaving Medical Kits to Ukrainian Rescue Teams (DSNS)

Published: September 11, 2024

With each missile strike in Ukraine, time is critical. The State Emergency Service (SES) of Ukraine is usually the first to arrive on the scene, even before ambulances. These rescue workers push through the wreckage, to deal with the chaos and devastation, to provide critical aid. Their quick actions mean the difference between life and death for those injured in these horrific attacks.

In a recent tragedy in Poltava, a missile strike leveled building and claimed 58 lives. Over 300 people were injured, many critically. DSNS (SES) responders were the first on-site, acting with precision and urgency — applying tourniquets, stabilizing the wounded, and saving countless lives.

Yet, their courage alone isn’t enough. Without the proper medical supplies, even the most heroic efforts can fall short of intent. This is where international support becomes a lifeline.

Thanks to the partnership between The Howard G. Buffett Foundation and Razom for Ukraine, 4,300 lifesaving medical kits are being delivered to Ukrainian rescue teams. These kits aren’t just supplies, they are essential tools that enable SES responders to perform life-saving interventions in the most dangerous conditions.

Distributed to SES units across the country, these medical kits will be on the frontlines where they are needed most — Russian missile strikes can happen anywhere, at any time. Each kit represents hope and a second chance for those caught in the crossfire of war.

These first responders risk everything, day in and day out, to protect others. The support from The Howard G. Buffett Foundation ensures they have the tools to continue their vital work. It’s a partnership that saves lives.

And this is just one element in a larger effort. For Ukraine’s first responders, who risk their lives in the aftermath of every attack to continue their life-saving work, our ongoing support is crucial.

Ukraine is not alone in this battle. The global response has shown that together, we are stronger. International grants, humanitarian aid, and critical medical donations like these are making a real difference. Thanks to initiatives like those from The Howard G. Buffett Foundation, the path to victory becomes clearer every day.

Together, we are stronger!

Impact of “20 Days in Mariupol” Across U.S. Campuses

Published: September 6, 2024

In the lead-up to its historic Oscar win in 2024, 20 Days in Mariupol garnered remarkable support from Razom Connect, specifically through its Razom Cinema and Ukraine on Campus projects. Partnering with PBS Distribution, we successfully distributed 50 DVDs of this poignant film to universities across the United States. This initiative not only broadened the film’s reach but also ensured its lasting impact through donations to campus libraries.

The screenings of 20 Days in Mariupol extended beyond the university campuses where they were held, igniting a wave of empathy and activism. This powerful documentary, directed by Pulitzer Prize-winning Ukrainian journalist Mstyslav Chernov, became a tool for profound reflection on the human experience during crises. Through these screenings, art demonstrated its transformative power to foster understanding, compassion, and hope amid adversity.

We also provided a screening toolkit to aid participants in planning and promoting their events. This toolkit included pre-made graphics and suggested captions for social media to amplify the impact of the film.

Event Highlights:

Harvard University: Featured Mariupol survivor Alina Beskrovna, who brought artifacts from the war, offering students a tangible connection to the devastation.
Montclair State University: Hosted a discussion with Michael Levdanski and Marianna Tretiak, providing insights from those actively aiding Ukraine.
University of Wisconsin: Led by student Anna Kovalchuk, focused on personal connections to the war and its impact on the university community.
University of Minnesota: Included survivors and Consul General Beth Richardson. Artem, a 17-year-old Mariupol survivor featured in the film, spoke to a large audience about his experiences.
City College of New York: Partnered with The Documentary Forum for a high-attendance screening, featuring influential cultural activist Daria Kolomiec.

The response from students was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed deep emotional reactions and gained a more meaningful understanding of the war. The film effectively challenged false narratives and provided a sobering view of life during war, inspiring empathy and connection across all 50 campuses.

Impact Report from DVD distribution to University campuses

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