“Umka”: A Safe Space for Childhood in Wartime

Natalia Makarenko, an experienced educator and winner of a WOF-UA mini-grant for private childcare providers, has opened “Umka”, an educational center for young children in the frontline city of Zelenodolsk, Ukraine.

With nearly 20 years in preschool education, Natalia was forced to rethink her career when all kindergartens in the city closed due to the war. In response to the urgent lack of childcare, she launched Umka in 2024 — a learning and development space for children aged 2–6 focused on education, creativity, movement, and socialization.

Despite ongoing challenges such as safety restrictions, power outages, and heating shortages, Umka now serves more than 50 children regularly. The center also offers inclusive weekend activities and provides free or reduced-cost access for internally displaced children, low-income families, and children of military personnel.

Grant support from WOF-UA made it possible to equip the space with educational and play materials, creating a safe and nurturing environment. Natalia’s story shows how women-led initiatives can preserve stability, care, and childhood — even in the most uncertain times.