Ready for adventure? Or how the #KRYLA initiative conjured up winter magic.
Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, Kateryna Bobrovnyk has become a guardian angel for the children of Chernihiv. Together with her initiative, #KRYLA (“Wings”), she stepped in to support the youngest generation, providing everything from essential school supplies like tablets, desks, and notebooks to creating leisure spaces like kindergarten playgrounds.
Over time, however, the format of this support has evolved. Material aid transformed into shared experiences: paddleboarding meetings, forest hikes, and trips to nature reserves.
Just in time for the winter holidays, Kateryna and her friends organized another burst of joy for children who have lost a parent in the war — a trip to the “Dim Khaski” (Husky House) in the village of Kladkivka, Chernihiv region.
The weather seemed to understand the assignment, setting the perfect atmosphere with falling snow. The children’s eyes lit up with the opportunity to hug, kiss, cuddle, and feed the animals. They spent the day surrounded by huskies, deer, two alpacas, horses, and even a playful local character named Lesyk.
What made this trip especially valuable was the involvement of the mothers. They embraced the chance to be in nature with their children so enthusiastically that they followed the bus in a convoy of their own. It was touching to see them “reset” emotionally; animal therapy proved to be a powerful healer for everyone.
And, of course, there was a picnic. The modern generation roasted bread over the fire just as skillfully as the adults (who kept boasting about their own childhood skills!). The sausages were cooked to perfection, and for once, the kids ate without any persuasion, washing it all down with warm tea and pure joy.
On the way home, the bus was quiet. We watched over the little ones who had fallen into a deep sleep, exhausted but incredibly happy. That was the sweetest moment of all.
Children — and all of us — need more than just material gifts; we need emotions. Kateryna, thank you for understanding this and for doing the possible and the impossible to make it happen.
Special thanks to:
- Our patrons, whose donations made this holiday possible.
- Volodymyr Kovalenko for the comfortable transport and support.
- Our colleagues who warmed hearts with delicious food and a cozy campfire.
- Valentyn Bobyr for capturing a thousand emotions in his photos.
- Our friends at “Dim Khaski” for welcoming us with open hearts.
