From 2023 October 1 until 2024 October 1 UIC "Malva" implemented the project "Emotional stability and social, cultural, cognitive integration of Ukrainian war refugees in Šiauliai region", which was financed by US Embassy in Vilnius / U.S. Embassy Vilnius.

The main goal of this initiative is to provide Ukrainian war refugees (both children and adults) with the services they need to cope with the consequences of loss, to achieve a quality life and successful integration in a new environment.

During the implementation of the project, it was possible to help about 1900 Ukrainians living in Šiauliai who needed psychological and legal help. Refugees are consulted on the permit/extension of residence in Lithuania (processing of migration documents), on work, place of study, residence, etc.

One of the most important and successfully implemented areas of the project is the cultural integration of war refugees into Lithuanian traditions, the opportunity to preserve and develop values ​​and opportunities for self-expression.

A great example is the successful Ukrainian folk song ensemble "Lastivočki" and the theater art studio for children and teenagers, which is led by theater and film actress Olena Lastivka.

During the year, 38 collective members together with guest artists organized 6 large concerts attended by about 1700 people. In addition, the ensembles performed at dozens of events in Šiauliai city and county at the invitation of various organizations.

An equally important component of integration is psychological support. Ukrainians who participated in meetings with a psychologist were helped to overcome fear, stress, and accept new challenges while learning to live in a new society. More than 70 people participated in 195 individual consultations and group art therapy sessions.

Funding of the project made it possible to pay for the services of a Ukrainian lawyer who advised the refugees on various legal issues. During the year, about 300 consultations were held at the law office, over 400 documents were prepared.

Integration, of course, also means learning a new language. Thanks to the project, Lithuanian language courses at A1-B1 levels were operating in the center. In total, during the year of study, 84 Ukrainians prepared the Lithuanian language at a sufficient level to pass the state exam. Learning the language made it easier to communicate, get social services, and get a job.

The center also offered A1-A2 level English language courses, the studies of which allowed Ukrainians to communicate more freely with foreigners, get to know other cultures, expand career opportunities, and receive more profitable job offers. It is now easier for Ukrainians to use service websites and fill out necessary documents in English. A total of 185 English language lessons were conducted, in which 50 learners participated.

One of the vulnerable categories of migrants are Ukrainian citizens who do not have the skills to use computers and apps. In order to improve computer literacy, computer training was organized in which 28 Ukrainian citizens mastered ICT technologies, learned to apply the acquired knowledge in everyday life (filling in electronic documents, finding information on the Internet, using useful functions of smartphones, etc.).

In the course of the project, educational, recreational and targeted trips were organized in Lithuania and the Baltic region. Their goal is not only to get to know cities, countries, their culture and traditions, but to create conditions for improving emotional health, diversifying the forms of leisure and recreation. The center also organized special trips of Ukrainians to the consulate, various seminars, meetings with partners.

No less important is the fact that UIC "Malva" improved its material and technical base, successfully developed relations with various organizations, increased its awareness and recognition not only in the Šiauliai region, but also far beyond the borders of Lithuania.

We are grateful US Embassy in Vilnius / U.S. Embassy Vilnius for the given opportunity to successfully implement the project program.