At the Reimer Center, together with the “Light of Life” Church, a special workshop was held for boys and girls — an event that combined creativity, hands-on work, and genuine care for children growing up in difficult times. The event brought together children of different ages who came not only to make something, but also to feel part of a friendly, supportive community. The goal was simple yet profound: to give them the chance to create with their own hands, learn something new, and spend at least a few hours in an atmosphere of warmth and stability.
The boys worked with natural wood: sawing boards, sanding them, hammering nails, fitting pieces together, gluing and leveling the surfaces to create wooden coasters for cups and teapots. For many, it was their first time using real tools — a chance to feel more grown-up, stronger, and capable. The leaders carefully guided them, teaching precision and patience, and the boys proudly admired the results of their work.
Among them was Andriy — a quiet, calm boy who worked diligently on his coaster. When asked why he needed it, he gave a simple, sincere answer: “I will drink hot tea when the electricity is off.” In these words lies both honesty and the painful truth of the present. Children are growing up during war, where power outages and air raid sirens have become part of everyday life. Moments like this remind us how important it is to create small islands of normal childhood for them.
While the boys worked with wood, a separate creative zone was prepared for the girls — a space for paper crafts and drawings. The tables were covered with colorful sheets, scissors, glue, ribbons, markers, and decorative elements. The girls created drawings, cut out shaped pieces, made appliqués and small handmade pictures. For them, it was more than an activity — it was a way to express themselves, their emotions, dreams, and experiences through creativity.
Each artwork was unique. Some created bright floral compositions, others cut out scenes from everyday life, and some simply played with colors guided by imagination. Volunteers offered help but did not interfere — the girls chose their own shapes, colors, and themes. And in that freedom there was something precious: a moment when a child can create her own little world without fear or tension.
Some girls made greeting cards for their mothers or friends, others created decorations for their rooms. One girl spent a long time cutting out the silhouette of a house with tiny windows — a quiet longing for a home without damage, without sirens. Creativity gave them the opportunity to express what cannot always be said in words.
Such activities are important not only because they teach new skills. They heal. They strengthen from within. They remind the children that life can still be colorful and warm, even when outside there is an air raid or darkness without electricity.
The leaders and volunteers of Reimer Center and the “Light of Life” Church understand how difficult the reality is in which this generation is growing up. That is why they strive to give children not only humanitarian support, but also attention, creativity, and a safe space for emotions and development. Workshops, group meetings, and creative or sports activities become moments of joy and protection for the children.
Despite all challenges — danger, power outages, exhaustion — the servants continue their work. Because the future of these children is being shaped now. Every good moment, every shared task, every handmade creation — is a piece of their inner peace.
As the children left for home, the boys carried their wooden coasters, and the girls their colorful drawings and appliqués. Their faces were full of smiles. In their hands — the fruits of their creativity. And in their hearts — a small sense of victory over circumstances.
And perhaps it is from such small victories that great hope is built.
