Since 2022, Ukraine has been facing major challenges as a result of its conflict with Russia. The John Cockerill Foundation, which is committed to social action, has stepped up its efforts to support the communities affected by the conflict and has chosen to work alongside the Gurtum Foundation, which stands out for its practical commitment and impact on the ground.
When the conflict broke out, the John Cockerill Foundation responded to the appeal of the industrial group’s employees, mobilising resources for immediate initiatives to alleviate the suffering of the people affected. However, aware of the importance of a longer-term contribution to reconstruction, we sought out local partners committed to the same vision.
Justine, Program Manager at the John Cockerill Foundation, took part in the Rebuild Ukraine trade fair last November in Warsaw, Poland. Thanks to the support of the Belgian Embassy in Poland and the collaboration of the Wallonia Export teams based in Poland and Ukraine, Justine was able to establish valuable contacts with various players in the field. Among the potential projects identified, the John Cockerill Foundation paid particular attention to one of the many projects run by Gurtum.
Since 2022, Gurtum has been working with determination to rebuild the regions devastated by the conflict. Made up of volunteers, this association embodies the spirit of solidarity and mutual aid that inspires many Ukrainians. Their main mission is to urgently restore homes and infrastructure in unoccupied areas, offering hope of normality to those affected.
The nerve centre of Gurtum’s work is in the Kyiv region, where they are coordinating their efforts to rebuild residential buildings, schools and clinics.
In practical terms, the John Cockerill Foundation is providing financial support for two projects in the Kyiv region: one involves building a shelter for 170 children at a primary school in Gostomel; the other, in the village of Ozero, involves reinforcing the floor of a shelter and fitting it out for 300 children at two schools and a kindergarten. Both projects are supervised by our colleague Valère.
Together, the John Cockerill Foundation and Gurtum embody international solidarity and the desire to rebuild a better future for Ukraine. This partnership illustrates the relevance of collective action in the fight against adversity and gives hope that, despite the trials, the light of solidarity can always shine.