Spotlight on Ihor Tsurkan: Hope in Kherson’s Darkest Days
A Lifeline in the Midst of Danger
Ihor’s involvement with UAid Direct began when contact with anyone outside occupied Kherson was extremely dangerous. Simply touching his phone to communicate was a life-threatening risk. Despite these dangers, Ihor remained committed to helping those in need in his city. His previous work in Kherson’s social services, combined with his connections to key local stakeholders, health services, and community leaders, positioned him perfectly to coordinate life-saving efforts on the ground.
Ihor had once run a successful travel agency, but as the war ravaged his city, he transformed his office into a warehouse for humanitarian aid. From this modest space, he organized the distribution of food, hygiene supplies, diapers, formula, and other essentials to young mothers, children, and elderly residents who had lost everything. It was through these efforts that we began to see just how vital Igor was to Kherson’s survival.
Coordinating Aid Amidst Chaos
Since we began supporting Ihor, his role has only grown. As Kherson continued to face bombardment and destruction, he became the linchpin in coordinating the distribution of aid across the region. His efforts went beyond just giving out supplies. Ihor helped open essential services, like a community laundry facility where people could wash their clothes despite the devastation around them. He also helped set up spaces where people could receive psychological help, attend first aid courses, and children could participate in sports activities—giving them a moment of normalcy amidst chaos.
Ihor’s tireless efforts didn’t stop there. With the city in ruins and hospitals unable to function properly, he connected us with medical facilities, including the Boston Maternity Clinic and the local blood donation center. Thanks to his deep ties in the community, he became our key contact for establishing our medical support programs in Kherson. Even as his own apartment and office were shelled, Ihor continued to coordinate deliveries of food, hygiene products, and other supplies to some of the most isolated villages around Kherson.
Why We Work with Ihor
Ihor could have left Kherson long ago, but he chose to stay. He remains one of the most trustworthy, flexible, and positive individuals we’ve ever worked with. His ability to navigate the complexities of a war zone, paired with his unwavering dedication to helping others, makes him indispensable.
What sets Ihor apart is his ability to connect people and resources in even the most desperate circumstances. He opens doors, brings in the right contacts, and ensures that aid gets to where it’s needed most. His leadership has been crucial to the success of our projects, from supplying hospitals with medical equipment to setting up underground public spaces where residents can find shelter and support.
How You Can Help
Despite the dangers he faces every day, Ihor continues to provide essential aid to the people of Kherson. But he cannot do it alone. UAid Direct and UAid Direct USA is proud to support Ihor, and with your help, we can continue to provide him with the resources he needs to make a difference.
Your donations will go directly to funding medical supplies, food, hygiene products, and other humanitarian aid for the people of Kherson. We’re also supporting small, life-changing projects like the community laundry and underground spaces where children can play and learn safely. With your help, Ihor and his team can continue to bring hope and relief to a city that has been devastated by war.
Join Us in Supporting Ihor’s Mission
Igor’s story is one of resilience, bravery, and a deep love for his country and his community. By supporting UAid Direct USA, you’re helping us empower people like Igor to keep fighting for Ukraine’s future. Every donation, no matter how small, makes a huge difference in the lives of those who need it most.
See the impact for yourself: Watch this short video about the community laundry facility Ihor helped establish and learn how it’s providing a lifeline for Kherson residents.
Please consider donating today. Together, we can continue to provide the aid that Igor and the people of Kherson so desperately need.