Kyiv, 18 October 2023 – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Ukraine, with financial support from the European Union, handed over 10 specially equipped vehicles to communities in Poltava, Sumy and Mykolaiv oblasts. These vehicles will strengthen the capacity of local and regional social services to provide support and assistance to various population groups in the field.

The Mobile Social Services vehicle has special equipment to provide social services to people with limited mobility and residents of remote areas. This vehicle is both a means of quick access for service users and a mobile office equipped with tools to provide a wide range of services: including medical care, psychological counseling and support with performing household duties, among others.

Such “hubs on wheels” are designed to bridge the gap between social services and people in need, allowing them to stay at home or in familiar surroundings instead of moving to specialized institutions. This approach reduces social isolation, promotes community connections, and reduces the need for residential care, promoting inclusion and improving the quality of life for clients. 

Stefan Schleuning, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Ukraine, emphasized the importance of partnerships with local authorities and the EU’s steadfast support for Ukraine’s recovery. “The European Union is firmly committed to strengthening the resilience of Ukraine’s institutions and people. Our joint project with UNDP ensures that basic social services remain accessible to all, regardless of their location,” he said. “Improved access to services is a tangible step towards rebuilding war-affected communities.”

Christophoros Politis, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative, stressed the importance of bringing social services closer to people and making them inclusive. “Mobile social services are becoming a real lifeline for war-affected communities, providing vital support where it is needed most,” he said. “These specially equipped vehicles will act as essential connections, bringing experts and services to the most remote areas, and contributing to the well-being of their residents.”

Background

During September and October 2023, a total of 10 specially equipped Mobile Social Services vehicles were transferred to communities in Poltava, Sumy, and Mykolaiv oblasts. 

The vehicles were procured and equipped by UNDP in Ukraine in the framework of the “EU4Recovery – Empowering Communities in Ukraine” (EU4Recovery) project, with financial support from the European Union.

Media enquiries: Yuliia Samus, UNDP Ukraine Head of Communications; e-mail: yuliia.samus@undp.org