Because of Spirit of America supporters like you, students in eastern Ukraine are learning with the lights on.

A few weeks after our successful Giving Tuesday campaign, we delivered emergency power and lighting equipment to schools in Chernihiv, Mykolaiv, and Kharkiv. Blackouts can last for up to 20 hours a day in these regions as Russia continues its attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.

Just two days before Christmas, our Ukrainian partners at savED sent us this message:

“Once again, you reminded us how vital it is to have friends like you — people who stand beside and support us. Unfortunately, the situation with blackouts is not improving, but now our teens are able to continue learning, meeting, and working on their projects with minimal interruptions. This stability means much more than it may seem at first glance.

“Behind every bit of magic, there are people who make it possible. Thank you for choosing to be these magicians with us and for believing in our youth when it matters most.”

Here’s what is now in the hands of students and teachers in our UActive program:

• 6 large charging stations providing reliable power for phones, computers, routers, lights, and even large appliances
• 150 rechargeable lamps, bringing safety, stability, and light to classrooms and shelters during long blackouts

Some of the students sent us videos, too. I loved the mini light show in this video of Ukrainians teen thanking us. Their smiles are a direct result of our generous supporters.

We’re honored to support Ukrainian students who refuse to give up on their education, even in the darkest of times. In places where students once gathered around a single flashlight or laptop, they now have tools to keep learning and hope for a brighter future.

Sincerely,

Grant Peehler
Regional Program Manager, Europe