Odessa Dormitory to Be Converted into Housing for Displaced Persons with UN Funding Interior Work

Transforming a Dormitory in Odessa into Housing for Displaced People

According to Рубрика — Суспільство: In Odessa, a dormitory located at Krasnova Street, 8 is set to be transformed into small apartment units specifically for internally displaced persons (IDPs). This renovation project is a joint effort between the city authorities and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The UNHCR will finance and oversee the interior renovations, while Odessa’s city government will handle the building’s exterior upgrades, including facade restoration, insulation, roofing, window replacement, and landscaping.

Back in April 2026, a contract worth 51.3 million hryvnias was signed with the construction company "KAM-EKOREMBUD" for a complete overhaul of the building. However, with the UN’s involvement, the scope of work under this contract has been narrowed down to focus mainly on demolition, facade repairs, roofing, and site improvements.

• Demolition tasks;
• Facade restoration;
• Roof repairs;
• Landscaping and site enhancements.

The contractor has already begun interior works and plans to soon start on the facade. Project documentation for the interior redesign and reconstruction is currently in development. While exact completion dates are not yet confirmed, UNHCR aims to finish the interior design phase in 2026 and potentially implement the project in 2027. Meanwhile, the Odessa city administration intends to continue exterior renovations as long as funding is secured.

This dormitory renovation is registered in the national public investment management system, DREAM. Meanwhile, in Berezivka, Odessa region, a former hospital therapeutic unit is also being remodeled into housing for displaced persons, accommodating 16 apartments for about 80 residents. The estimated cost of this project is approximately 38.7 million hryvnias.

Upcoming Projects and Funding Challenges

Additionally, Odessa plans to upgrade the burn center at City Clinical Hospital No. 10. This modernization effort requires over 35 million hryvnias, though funding has not yet been secured. The broader initiative, "Accountable Reconstruction of Housing and Healthcare Facilities: Monitoring Public Investments through the Recovery Window," receives financial support from the European Union.

As Andriy Trytko noted, 'The international organization is responsible for financing the internal reconstruction.'

Odessa continues to develop vital housing solutions for internally displaced individuals during these challenging times. The dormitory renovation is part of a larger program supporting displaced populations across Ukraine, a need that has intensified due to the ongoing conflict. Collaboration between local authorities and international bodies like UNHCR highlights the importance of joint efforts in tackling pressing social issues. These projects in Odessa and other cities exemplify the commitment of local governments to improving living conditions for vulnerable groups.

In addition to the ongoing renovation of the dormitory in Odessa, another significant project is underway in the Berezivka area, where a former therapeutic unit is being transformed into accommodations for displaced individuals. This initiative aims to provide housing for around 80 residents, with completion expected by 2026. For more details on this important project, visit the transformation of the therapeutic ward in Berezivka.