Non-profit appeals for urgent aid for orphaned Ukrainian kids

Non-profit organization Children of Heroes Charity Fund appealed for donations and global solidarity for the Ukraine children trapped by the conflict with Russia.

Brice Espino, a 33-year-old Filipino advocate and Global Chief Executive Officer for Children of Heroes, said their organization had been assisting 6,000 Ukrainian children as of September 2023 from just around 1,000 at the end of 2022.

“[U]p to 50 children join the Charity's assistance programs every day. By the end of 2023, it is estimated that there will be 10,000 children under our care. We need to be aware of these implications and educate young people about active peacekeeping now. We all have a responsibility towards protecting children, especially during war,” Espino said.

“The needs of Ukraine’s children also go beyond the material. Educational, psychological and developmental interventions are needed to ease their trauma – all of which are offered by the organization. As part of the Children of Heroes’ team, I strive to channel the energy of bayanihan which we’re known for towards the cause of Ukrainian children because everything is interconnected – we’re physically safe from the war, but it affects the prices of basic needs like food and gas everywhere,” Espino added.

Espino is in Manila as part of the organization’s efforts for global expansion and is exploring partnerships with networks focused on similar advocacies.

The Children of Heroes Charity Fund helps children who have lost one or both parents due to the conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

The assistance provided by the organization included financial assistance, psychological and legal support, and promotion of children’s education and development until they are 18 years old.

About 83% of the foundation’s kids are children of military personnel, while 17% are children of civilians.

Those interested in making a donation can do so by visiting childrenheroes.org/donate. — DVM, GMA Integrated News