Caring for a child with special needs is always demanding. Doing so under war-time conditions is an extra challenge. Dmytryk was scarcely a toddler when the family had to evacuate their home in Irpin, Ukraine, because of the Russian invasion. As soon as the city was liberated, they returned to rebuild their lives.

Now six, Dmytryk was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at birth. His parents are continuously focussed on his health and development, doing everything they can to provide him with the best care and opportunities. His mother, Liudmyla, heard about the support offered by Serve Now from a friend who is also raising a child with disability.

“Liudmyla reached out to us,” says Serve Now leader Tanya Shpygunova. “We were able to provide her family with a food package and with a voucher worth 1,000 UAH [about £17] thanks to Blythswood’s support.

“For families like this who already face medical and caregiving expenses, the economic consequences of the war create additional pressure. Help with essential food allows the family to redirect limited resources towards their child’s care and development. Liudmyla was so grateful for your support.”