Animal Shelter Project in Chernihiv

While tens of millions of people are suffering as a result of the war in Ukraine, countless animals are also facing immense hardship. Many animal shelters were already in precarious situations before the Russian invasion, and the war has only worsened their plight. The number of abandoned, stray, and neglected animals has risen sharply. Acts of cruelty against animals are increasing, and there is a significant lack of adequate animal shelters. One of the purposes of Green Cross Switzerland (GCCH) is to help fulfil humanity’s responsibility towards the environment. Animals are an integral part of the environment, and it is our responsibility as humans not to stand by while they die and suffer. Instead, we must work together to support them.

This is why GCCH has been supporting existing animal shelters in Ukraine with food, medicine, and other essential supplies since the beginning of the war. Now, we are taking a step further by preparing to build a new shelter in Sosnytsya, Chernihiv. The decision to establish a refuge for animals in need in this area stems from the acute shortage of animal shelters in the region, compounded by the absence of a suitable existing building that could be repurposed. Furthermore, this relatively impoverished region, severely affected by both the war and the lingering impact of the Chernobyl disaster, has long been a focus of GCCH’s efforts.

At the end of last year, local councillors allocated a plot of land for the shelter. If the planning and approval processes for the building proceed smoothly, construction is expected to begin in the spring. Environmentally friendly materials will be used, and a solar power system is also planned. The municipality is supporting GCCH administratively and has agreed to charge only a reduced rent for the property. However, due to its precarious financial situation, it cannot provide the land free of charge.

The shelter is being designed to accommodate at least 80 animals, primarily dogs and cats, at any given time. Each year, it is expected to provide medical care for around 300–400 animals and find new homes for approximately 200.

As part of GCCH’s psychological support programme, the shelter will also offer direct assistance to children, young people, and adults affected by the war, while fulfilling an educational mission. Each year, hundreds of children and families are expected to participate in the shelter’s educational programmes. Participants will be selected from local schools, community centres, and orphanages, with preference given to children with special needs or those in particularly difficult circumstances. The aim of these programmes is to promote empathy, responsible pet ownership, and a deeper understanding of animal welfare.

In addition, the shelter will offer animal-assisted therapies to 100–150 people annually. These individuals, traumatised by the horrors of war, will be referred to us by institutions such as hospitals, psychiatric clinics, or veterans’ organisations.

The project is planned to run for 24 months. During the second year, an evaluation will be conducted to determine the next steps. In keeping with the foundation’s principle of helping people to help themselves, GCCH aims to ensure that the animal shelter can eventually operate independently. The local population and authorities will be involved as much as possible throughout the process.