For three years, Ukraine’s children have endured the unimaginable. Exploding missiles, destroyed homes and the constant fear of death have replaced what should be carefree childhood days. But in a picturesque corner of Western Ukraine, something remarkable is happening this summer.
A safe haven in troubled times
Children in Ukraine have a chance to reclaim their sense of joy, curiosity and serenity at Camp Lighthouse, an SOS Children’s Villages summer camp.
Located in a safe and scenic area, Camp Lighthouse offers hundreds of children who have suffered intense stress and trauma a two-week refuge in nature.
For many children, these two weeks are the only time of the year they aren’t surrounded by the ominous sounds of air-raid sirens. Instead, their days are filled with creative workshops, educational classes, outdoor activities, psychological support groups and dancing.
“Trauma lives in the body,” said Olha, the camp coordinator. “Rapid movements such as dancing help release it.”
Read more about our work in Ukraine.
The healing power of nature
Research shows that firsthand experiences with nature significantly reduces anxiety in children and increases their resilience to future stressors. Camp Lighthouse leverages this data by immersing children in nature, allowing them to safely explore trees, meadows and the neighboring lake with counselor supervision.
Children who have spent months hiding indoors have the freedom to run, climb trees, read outside or experience any number of other outdoor activities without fear.
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Learning through play
Each day at camp follows a thoughtful structure and schedule to provide comfort and healing to children.
“A routine fights uncertainty and reduces anxiety,” Olha said.
Mornings and afternoons feature workshops divided by age groups. In addition to these workshops, children are encouraged to brainstorm ideas for joint projects. In one inspiring example, a group of teenagers collaborated with camp counselors to design and build a small boat from wooden pallets, which children used throughout the summer to explore the nearby lake.
While participation is encouraged, children maintain the freedom to opt-out of activities—providing a refreshing sense of control, autonomy and dignity for children and young people whose voices often go unheard in conflict.
Between the coordinated activities and energetic dance parties, the schedule also includes quiet periods for rest and reflection, recognizing that children need both guided, trauma-informed care and times of stillness to heal.
Building resilience together
Camp Lighthouse is more than just a summer getaway—it’s a vital intervention in the emotional well-being of Ukraine’s children.
By combining therapeutic approaches with play, nature, psychosocial support and community, the camp helps build resilience that children can carry with them long after they return home.
You can help provide emergency relief and long-term recovery for the children in Ukraine with your gift to the Children in Crisis Fund today.
Together, with the compassionate support of friends like you, we’re helping children heal from trauma and build brighter futures.