Gatherings Across Ukraine Offer Mothers Respite and Connection

Project Kesher Ukraine recently held ‘Mom’s Gatherings’ across Lviv, Odesa and Khmelnytskyi, creating safe spaces where mothers could unwind, learn and reconnect with themselves and their children amidst the stresses of the ongoing war.

In Lviv, an art-focused master class with Iryna Chernets filled the room with creativity, laughter and sweet treats. “It felt like we left the weight of the world outside,” shared one participant. In Odesa, psychologist Polina Bereziuk guided a self-care session featuring mindfulness exercises, therapeutic writing and warm tea, hosted with support from the Jewish Culture Center Beit Grand and Jewish charitable foundations Hesed Shaarei Zion and Or Shalom. In Khmelnytskyi, playful activities strengthened the mother-child bond, leaving participants with joyful memories and practical insights to nurture family connections.

The events gave participants a needed break from their daily responsibilities, while offering tools for personal growth, emotional renewal and long-lasting connection. Many resolved to dedicate more time to themselves, panic less over small things and find techniques to improve family communication.