Program areas at Mission to Ukraine
Approximately 425 children with disabilities and their families attended 2,500 appointments either in person or via telecommunications with MTU in 2021. Over 1,000 children with special needs were served in 2021. Services included occupational therapy, physical therapy, alternative augmentative communication therapy, speech therapy, music therapy, art therapy, sensory therapy, medical and dental services provided by a 7-member team of physicians and dentists, social integration programs, special education preschool classes, school integration and readiness classes, and more. Each child is treated based on their Individual Care Plan (ICP). Approximately, 950 needy children and their families qualified for and received monthly humanitarian aid packages and medicines. 85 residents of an orphanage for boys with mental and physical disabilities received similar services on a regular basis from staff and trained volunteers. MTU services provide improved quality of life, hope for tomorrow, and build dignity for this marginalized segment of children.
Unplanned pregnancies resulting in abortion may be more prevalent in Ukraine than in any other European country. The average Ukrainian woman may have up to six abortions, making abortion as culturally acceptable as a simple dental procedure. Since 1997, MTU has helped mothers in crisis, and society as a whole, realize the value of human life. In 2021 MTU served 625 women through six counseling locations. Approximately 395 babies were saved from abortion in 2021. All families received medical and dental services through MTU's onsite clinic, as appropriate, and free of charge. 200 women and families were identified as in extreme need of assistance and received monthly humanitarian aid packages. 2,000 students, teachers, and community leaders participated in risky behaviors seminars learning about abstinence and sexuality, HIV/AIDs, STIs, substance abuse, alcoholism, and other highly risky choices.
As is often explained by Christian theologians, the local church is God's plan for restoring his people and fighting systems of injustice. These funds support Ukrainian churches' efforts to impact lives of communities in remote villages, provide Christian outreach materials, offer after-school feeding programs, and help with church facility improvements.
During 2021, MTU began construction of a 27,000 sq foot rehab facility located in the heart of Zhytomyr City to increase the number of clients it can serve and its geographical reach.