“Very Grateful”: in Dnipro First Families From Mariupol Receive Keys to Housing the Rinat Akhmetov Foundation Helped to Furnish

The first ten families from Mariupol have received the keys to new temporary housing in Dnipro. This is a pilot project #IAmMariupolHousing for displaced persons from the city of Mary [Mariupol], which the Rinat Akhmetov Foundation joined as a partner. The first building of 35 flats will accommodate 127 people.

Every family has a challenging story about what they experienced during the war. Everyone has children. These are families with many children, families that have children with disabilities, single mothers, as well as families with minors and pensioners.

Yevgenia Ivanova moved from Mariupol to Dnipro with her three daughters. Her husband died defending Azovstal. The family was one of the first to receive the keys to their new flat.
“Well, this is not the same as our sweet home, but nevertheless, at least some improvement in living conditions for people who have lost their housing. Especially those who have many children. It is very difficult when you are with children. We like it. We are very grateful,” the woman said.

When receiving the keys to the flats, many people could not hold back their emotions. They were tears of joy and relief — from the support provided and the opportunity to further build and improve their lives in a place that will become, albeit temporarily, but home for them.

In the renovated and refurbished hostel-type buildings for Mariupol residents, the Rinat Akhmetov Foundation arranged cosy and comfortable areas for common use: provided modern furniture and appliances in the hallway, co-working space, and in the kitchen, as well as various interesting toys and play areas in the children’s room.

The Foundation plans to further support the #IAmMariupolHousing project. During the year, about 4,000 residents of Mariupol from the most vulnerable social categories will be able to receive such housing. To submit an application, contact the Mariupol city administration or IAmMariupol centres.