The "Labdaribas Fonds Help Ukraine" began its activities in early summer 2022. Its main areas of operation include Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia. As the war in Ukraine, caused by Russia, continues, the fund seeks support for the people of Ukraine, particularly in the Sumy region, while also working on other mutual cooperation projects.
In mid-June, the first vehicle dispatched from Kuldīga successfully reached Sumy. It was fully equipped for work and continues to be used.
Currently, more vehicles are being prepared. The fund organized a flag exchange as a symbol of support and assistance between the regions of Latvia and Ukraine.
The Kuldīga district flag, symbolizing Kuldīga, was presented to the Sumy region. In return, the Sumy region flag was brought to Kuldīga as a gesture of gratitude and cooperation.

When Andrii handed over the flag to Ms. Bērziņa, he remarked: "The Kuldīga flag is in a place of honor in the office of Sumy district head Dmytro Zhyvytsky, and now our Sumy region flag will be with you!"
During the brief meeting, Baltic Fund Director Andrejs Sidelovs and Kuldīga District Council Chairwoman Inga Bērziņa discussed various cooperation opportunities.
One idea was the creation of housing for temporary Ukrainian refugees. Sidelovs noted that many refugees are running out of government support in their current locations.

As the war's duration and the possibility of safe return remain uncertain, it's crucial to consider how to ease the financial burden on host countries and municipalities, and integrate refugees into the local society.

Sidelovs emphasized the potential to attract EU funds for programs aimed at these goals. Andrejs Sidelovs (in Russian): "For example, if our people have been living in Latvia since the war began, they should be able to stand on their own feet, find jobs, work independently, and undergo linguistic and legal adaptation to integrate into Latvian society. These programs should provide assistance in this direction, as well as consider housing construction. This could involve modular homes or settlements equipped for living. If successful, it would be a huge benefit, easing the load on local governments where our compatriots live, and contributing to Latvia's economy."

Inga Bērziņa (in Latvian): "Currently, it is very difficult for Ukrainians to find housing here. We have faced significant challenges with housing for our own residents, and now there are also Ukrainian residents. It is very positive that various resources will become available, and we hope to benefit from them. It is encouraging that Ukrainian businessmen themselves want to work on and build these housing areas. Let us think together about solving this vital issue not only for Ukrainians but also for our residents."

As of now, there are 165 asylum seekers from Ukraine in the Kuldīga district. Some are housed in municipal facilities, while others stay with friends, relatives, or acquaintances. They are receiving necessary assistance and support.

Report Authors: Ieva Benefelde Ronalds Perševičs