Ever since the Kahkov dam burst in Kherson on June 6, Caritas been present to help the population – both in the evacuation and those who remain. In addition to clean drinking water and food, there is a great need for water pumping and water disinfection to avoid diseases such as cholera.

The organization began relief efforts immediately after the disaster struck, setting up aid stations in the cities of Odesa and Mykolaiv, and logistical routes for the delivery of drinking water.

To date, over 14.5 tons of drinking water and 48 tons of humanitarian aid have been delivered. Caritas is also prepared to welcome a new wave of internally displaced people, and has established a financial support scheme for flood victims.

The Kherson reservoir is usually a source of drinking water for around 700,000 residents in southern Ukraine. The water level has dropped by 70 percent, creating severe water shortages in several places. At the same time, stagnant water and a lack of clean drinking water pose major health challenges. Fortunately, no outbreaks of cholera or other waterborne diseases have been reported so far.

Will contribute to the reconstruction

In close collaboration with local authorities, international organizations and the UN's Humanitarian Aid Coordination Unit, Caritas conducted a mapping of needs and risks in the affected areas.

Responding to a flood disaster is new for Caritas in Ukraine. On the same day that the dam burst, a headquarters was established for emergency response , and nearby local branches were assigned important roles in the relief effort. We are distributing food, water, clothing and hygiene products to evacuees arriving at the train stations in Mykolaiv, Kryvyi Rih and Dnipro. As soon as possible, we will participate in the reconstruction and provide psychosocial support.

Caritas Ukraine emergency appeal

Crops and livelihoods destroyed

Many of those who had their houses destroyed and damaged have returned to the city after it was liberated. Now they are being hit again and forced from their homes. It is tragic.

The flood has made it impossible for many of those who depend on agriculture to make a living, not only because of destroyed crops and dead livestock, but also because of the water shortage in the entire region. The large bodies of water have also caused land and agricultural areas to disappear or move. It will therefore be important to help them so that they are able to earn a living again.

Caritas Ukraine emergency appeal