Winnipegger returns home after spending 14 months rebuilding schools in Ukraine
Posted January 2, 2024 5:39 pm.
Last Updated January 2, 2024 7:13 pm.
For many of us, spending the holidays with family and friends is something we may take for granted. But for Winnipeg’s Patricia Maruschuk, this year’s holiday gatherings come with greater significance.
The devoted wife and mother of two spent the last 14 months in Ukraine rebuilding schools and helping students.
“To be back in Winnipeg, to see my family and spend normal time at home with them it’s for me a stress reliever and just reminds me that I have my own community supporting me and I really appreciate that,” explained Maruschuk.
Maruschuk works with Finn Church Aid, a Finnish humanitarian organization that provides education support in emergencies. When Russia began its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, she knew she needed to help.
“For me, it was almost like things coming full circle because I started my career in Ukraine, and with the war going on I was very interested in helping if I could because there is so much need for help and assistance right now.”
Since arriving in Kyiv in October 2022, Maruschuk and her team have reopened 16 schools that were damaged and have built 38 bomb shelters where students can take refuge during attacks.
Her work, however, doesn’t just focus on the reconstruction of schools, but the mental well-being of those impacted by the unjust war.
“There is a toll on the population. One of the other things we do with teachers and students is provide mental health and social support to deal with stress, anxiety, and fears. There are some children and teachers who have been through some very dramatic things,” explained Maruschuk.
Throughout her time in Ukraine, Maruschuk has been taken aback by the Ukrainian’s unwavering belief that peace will one day return to their home.
“They are resilient, they are confident that Ukraine will be victorious in the near future. And hopeful that this war will come to an end and they can live in peace again.”
Maruschuk plans on returning to Ukraine later this month, with plans on expanding their program into the Eastern and Southern regions of the country.