EU and EIB Deliver Critical Healthcare and Housing Projects in War-Affected Ukraine

The project involved the renovation of two unused municipal buildings, transforming them into modern, safe living spaces for families forced to flee their homes.

Two major social infrastructure projects aimed at strengthening emergency healthcare and housing for displaced families have been inaugurated in Cherkasy, central Ukraine, marking a significant step in the country’s ongoing recovery amid Russia’s war.

Backed by the European Union and the European Investment Bank (EIB), the initiatives provide both lifesaving medical capacity and safe accommodation for vulnerable populations, reinforcing local resilience during wartime.

Safe Housing for Displaced Families

A newly completed social housing facility for internally displaced persons (IDPs) offers:

• 47 residential units

• Temporary accommodation for around 130 residents

• Dedicated support for older people and persons with disabilities

The project involved the renovation of two unused municipal buildings, transforming them into modern, safe living spaces for families forced to flee their homes.

With Cherkasy hosting nearly 30,000 displaced people, local authorities have identified housing as a critical priority.

“This gives new life to a former kindergarten building, transforming it into a modern home for internally displaced persons,” said Anatoliy Bondarenko, Mayor of Cherkasy.

Boosting Emergency Medical Response Capacity

The second project—the Regional Centre of Emergency Medical Aid and Disaster Medicine—is designed to significantly enhance healthcare delivery across the region.

The facility will:

• Coordinate ambulance services across Cherkasy oblast

• Improve emergency response organisation and efficiency

• Serve as a training hub for medical personnel

• Provide secure storage for critical medical supplies

The centre is expected to create over 140 jobs, strengthening both healthcare capacity and local employment.

Fast-Tracked Delivery Amid War

Both projects were completed within just one year, highlighting the urgency and efficiency of Ukraine’s recovery efforts.

They were financed through more than €3.2 million in EIB funding, under the broader €200 million Ukraine Early Recovery Programme—a flagship EU–EIB initiative supporting rapid reconstruction.

The programme is implemented in partnership with:

• Ukraine’s Ministry of Finance

• Ministry for Development of Communities and Territories

• Local authorities

• Technical support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

Strengthening Resilience in Wartime

EIB Vice-President Karl Nehammer подчеркed the importance of maintaining essential services during conflict:

“Even in the midst of war, communities must continue to provide essential services and protect the most vulnerable.”

Similarly, Stefan Schleuning, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Ukraine, highlighted the tangible impact of EU support:

“This means faster emergency care and a safe place to stay for families who have lost their homes—real, practical support when it matters most.”

A Broader Recovery Effort Underway

In Cherkasy oblast alone, EIB-backed recovery programmes are helping rebuild:

• Healthcare infrastructure

• Housing for displaced populations

• Municipal services

An additional 11 projects are planned in the region, signaling sustained investment in recovery and resilience.

Deputy Prime Minister Oleksii Kuleba noted that such initiatives demonstrate how international support translates into real improvements on the ground:

“Stronger local services and greater security for people who rely on them every day.”

International Partnership Driving Local Impact

The projects reflect close coordination between European institutions and Ukrainian authorities, with UNDP playing a key role in implementation.

“Through its partnership with the EU and the EIB, UNDP is helping communities restore essential services and create safe housing,” said Auke Lootsma, UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine.

Rebuilding Lives, Restoring Stability

As the war continues to disrupt lives across Ukraine, investments like these are helping communities restore stability, rebuild essential services, and support displaced populations.

By combining infrastructure development with social support, the EU and EIB are reinforcing Ukraine’s resilience—ensuring that even in crisis, healthcare, housing, and hope remain accessible.