In Zaporizhzhia, a city that has been living under the conditions of war for a long time, the children’s club at Reimer Center once again gathered around 30 children. For many of them, this is not just a meeting place — it is a space of joy, safety, and real childhood, something especially important to preserve during difficult times.
This time, the meeting felt especially lighthearted and joyful. From the very beginning, the children eagerly joined the games, laughed, talked with one another, and participated in different activities. The atmosphere was lively and sincere — everyone could feel like part of something bigger. The volunteers prepared an engaging program with active games, moments for conversation, and small team challenges. The children were not simply spending time together — they were learning to interact, support one another, and open up.
At one point, it seemed like just another regular club meeting, similar to many others before it. But at the end of the gathering, a pleasant surprise was waiting for the children.
They were invited outside.
In the fresh air, near the park, a field kitchen was already operating. Thanks to it, a simple but very warm idea became possible — preparing hot pizza for the children. The smell of fresh baked pizza quickly filled the area, and the children’s eyes immediately lit up with excitement and joy.
Each child received a slice of hot and delicious pizza. For some, it was simply their favorite food. For others, it became a small celebration in the middle of a difficult reality. The children ate, laughed, and shared their impressions with each other. In these simple moments, there was something truly valuable — being together, enjoying small joys, and forgetting about the worries of war, even if only for a short time.
Afterward, the children had the chance to run and play outside in the fresh air. The nearby park became filled with children’s laughter, movement, and life. Some played tag, others walked with friends, and some stayed close to the volunteers, continuing conversations. These moments felt especially meaningful — alive, genuine, and full of light.
For the Reimer Center team, meetings like this are about more than simply organizing activities. They are an opportunity to give children a sense of normal life, stability, and care. In a city located not far from the front line, even simple things like hot pizza and games in the park take on a deeper meaning.
This day became another reminder that even in difficult conditions, moments of joy can still be created. Through shared efforts, simple ideas, and a sincere desire to help, around 30 children were able to experience a day they will remember for a long time.
And perhaps it is exactly days like these that leave something deeper in the heart — faith that even in difficult times, kindness continues to work.
