Therapeutic Garden Opens in Kropyvnytskyi
A new therapeutic garden has been unveiled at the city’s Comprehensive Rehabilitation Center in Kropyvnytskyi, designed to support recovery, sensory stimulation, and emotional well-being. Thoughtfully created with universal design principles, this garden welcomes children and youth with disabilities, veterans, seniors, and center staff alike. Visitors can engage with various plants and natural elements, observe wildlife, relax, and connect with others in this inclusive green space.
Future Enhancements and Community Involvement
Plans for further development include adding new zones, planting additional greenery, integrating sensory features, and organizing educational sessions and group activities. The concept for this garden was inspired by a similar facility in Kyiv, where the therapeutic garden at VDNH became Ukraine’s first barrier-free environment dedicated to the physical, psychological, and social rehabilitation of veterans and other individuals.
The project brought together a diverse group of contributors including:
- Center staff
- The city council’s Department of Social and Veterans’ Policy
- Families, partners, and sponsors
Some of the work was completed using the center’s own resources. Among the dedicated supporters was Natalia Zhukarina, the mother of fallen defender Maksym.
Liliya Misyunya, one of the project organizers, emphasized: "We wanted this space to be accessible not only for children with disabilities."
As a result, the therapeutic garden in Kropyvnytskyi is set to become a vital hub for social inclusion and support, fostering physical and emotional health across multiple community groups.
The garden’s opening marks a significant advancement in rehabilitation and social integration efforts for people with disabilities, veterans, and older adults in the city. By prioritizing accessibility and inclusivity, such initiatives enhance quality of life and could serve as a model for other Ukrainian cities aiming to create welcoming environments for all residents.
In addition to the therapeutic garden's opening, initiatives like the establishment of mental health support spaces across primary care centers reflect a growing commitment to enhancing emotional well-being in Ukraine. These efforts collectively aim to foster an inclusive environment that addresses the diverse needs of the community.