Forty Ukrainian children and teenagers aged 7 to 14, along with four chaperones, have been in Wiesbaden from Sunday, August 9, through Friday, August 21. They are from Kamianets-Podilskyi or are internally displaced persons from other war-affected areas of Ukraine. Many of these young people have endured traumatic experiences, whether through the loss of close relatives or constant threats. The summer camp in Wiesbaden is intended to give them a break from their war-torn daily lives, new experiences, and moments of carefree joy.

Last July, the capital of Hesse already hosted a similar summer camp for children and teenagers from its Ukrainian sister city. This time, the trip is being organized by the Wiesbaden*Kamianets-Podilskyi Sister City Association and funded through donations. In cooperation with the Dunstan Center in Wiesbaden, the children can once again look forward to a varied program in which they will be cared for by an experienced team in their native language.   

“You children have had to go through a lot in recent years—things you should have been spared. That’s why I support and appreciate this initiative all the more—to give you a few days of peace and relaxation here in Wiesbaden,” said Mende. “After we, as the municipal administration, hosted the summer camp last year, I’m delighted that the co-chairs of the partnership association, Susanne Vögtler and Tetyana Pastushok, have taken up the concept and are continuing it as an association. My heartfelt thanks also go to all the supporters who make this initiative financially possible in the first place.”