On March 31, 2025, a significant event took place in Kyiv's Shevchenkivskyi district, showcasing the vital role of social work in supporting the community. Students specializing in social work visited the local Department of Labor and Social Protection to gain firsthand experience of the institution's daily operations and the challenges faced by social workers.
The visit aimed not just to familiarize students with the management and practical activities of the institution but also to deepen their understanding of the mechanisms of social protection. Through discussions with professionals and direct immersion in work processes, students encountered the real face of social work, filled with daily challenges, stories of pain and hope, solutions, and humanity.
During their visit, the students identified several key areas for in-depth analysis. These included the functioning of social services, support for veterans, a multidisciplinary approach to assistance, the labor rights of social workers, and humanocentrism as a guiding philosophy. The insights gained were profound.
Students Kukharenko Daria, Martynenko Anastasia, and Korotenko Victoria shared their impressions, emphasizing the importance of understanding the social services in action. They noted, "We learned more than we expected. The most interesting part was the detailed overview of how different departments function, the process of applying for social benefits, the necessary documentation, and the challenges workers face daily in providing assistance." They were particularly moved by real-life stories illustrating how social workers support individuals in critical situations, which deepened their appreciation for the social work profession.
Anna Sholomitska highlighted the professionalism and clarity of the organization, stating, "Stepping into the institution, I immediately felt the professionalism, the clarity of the organization, and the readiness to help. The friendly staff and well-thought-out navigation indicated a commitment to both the external appearance and the internal quality of service. The consultants not only knew the answers to all questions but also explained complex legal matters in simple, understandable language." She also stressed the importance of an individual approach to each visitor, noting, "In this department, you are not treated as just another number in line; you are listened to, understood, and supported."
Sholomitska's comments reflected a broader sentiment among the students about the positive impression the Department left. They recognized that the institution not only fulfills a social function but does so at a commendable level. Anastasia Kukharchuk reiterated this sentiment, saying, "The Department of Labor and Social Protection is not just a long-named structure; it is an important link in social support that works for the benefit of citizens."
The visit also provided insights into how the Department coordinates efforts among social workers, psychologists, medical professionals, and legal experts to create a comprehensive support system for vulnerable populations, including individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and internally displaced persons.
Moreover, the students learned about the labor rights of the professionals working within the Department. Discussions included work conditions, adherence to labor rights, corporate culture, and motivational systems for employees. The overarching conclusion was that humanity and professionalism are what keep the system alive, with tolerance, empathy, stress resilience, and communication skills being daily tools for consultants, social workers, and administrators.
As the students reflected on their visit, they recognized it as a journey into the heart of the social sphere, where lives are transformed daily. They expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and valuable knowledge that would undoubtedly assist them in their future careers. The insights gained during this visit will serve them well as they prepare to enter a field that is both challenging and rewarding.
In a related development, the city of Kryvyi Rih has initiated the distribution of free food packages to support residents and internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by the ongoing conflict. Head of the Rada of Defense, Oleksandr Vilkul, spoke with recipients in the Metalurgical district, emphasizing the importance of this initiative during wartime.
The Rada of Defense, in collaboration with the executive committee, has opened 25 stationary points for food distribution, with three located in the Metalurgical district. Families are eligible to receive one package, but larger families or those with children requiring assistance can receive additional packages based on their needs.
Igor Vovkozub, Deputy Head of the District Council, explained that distribution is conducted using a "Kryvorizhets Card" or through original documents that confirm a person’s eligibility for assistance. He urged residents not to rush to the distribution points simultaneously to avoid creating queues, assuring them that there are enough packages for everyone.
For more information about the categories of residents eligible for assistance, the addresses of distribution points, and contact numbers, residents can visit the executive committee's website.
These initiatives highlight the ongoing commitment of social services to support vulnerable populations during these challenging times. As the students learned about the intricacies of social work and the critical role it plays, they were reminded of the resilience and compassion that define the field.
The visit to the Department of Labor and Social Protection not only enriched the students' academic experience but also reinforced the importance of empathy and dedication in social work. The insights gained from both the visit and the food distribution initiative serve as a testament to the strength of community support in times of need.
