UNICEF has announced a large-scale winter support plan for Ukrainians for 2025–2026, which includes the allocation of $65 million to assist 272,000 people, including 122,000 children. The main focus is on front-line regions, where infrastructure has been destroyed due to the war, and access to heating, water, and electricity is limited. This was reported on the official UNICEF website.
Ukrainians need help during the winter period
Due to damage to energy and heating systems, many households in Ukraine have lost access to basic services. Winter exacerbates these problems, especially for families with children. According to UNICEF, over three years of war, the level of monetary poverty has increased by 15%, and material poverty among children has reached 70%. Last winter, one in five families reported health problems due to cold in their homes.
What types of assistance will UNICEF provide to Ukrainians in winter 2025/2026
UNICEF's program includes three key areas:
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Cash assistance: payments for 272,000 individuals, including 122,000 children, for utility bills, warm clothing, and fuel.
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School support: grants for 600 schools where 250,000 students are studying, to ensure comfortable learning conditions.
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Infrastructure repair: modernization of heating systems for 1 million Ukrainians, such as new boilers in Konotop, which will heat 80,000 residents.
Why does UNICEF help Ukrainians with cash?
Cash assistance is recognized as the most effective: 94% of recipients in previous years used the funds for urgent needs. Preparations for winter began early, but the program is only funded at 37%. An additional $41 million is needed for full implementation. The initiative has received support from the EU, the governments of Germany, Norway, and national UNICEF committees.
Earlier, we shared how to recognize fake payments from UNICEF.