UKRAINE — Just 40 miles from a Christian-run special needs center in the Sumy region of Ukraine sits Kursk in Russia where intense fighting continues.

In the town of Konotop where the Hearts of Love Center is based air raid sirens and explosions have become a daily part of life for the special needs children who come there. But in the midst of this conflict children like Masha have found this place to be like a safe haven for them where they also make lasting friendships.

Just 40 miles from the Russian border in the Sumy region of Ukraine the Hearts of Love Centre with the support of Christian charity Mercy Projects continues to not only teach and equip special needs children, but it has become a haven of peace since the war began.

One of those young people who has been coming to the center, for several years now is Masha who has a condition called Williams Syndrome. With air raid sirens and attacks becoming almost a daily occurrence she describes the anxiety she feels when she hears nearby explosions…

Masha:

I felt my heart like a drum. I heard really loud explosions really badly.

However she says coming to the center helps her to cope with all of this..

Masha:

I feel here like a safe place. I breath better here and it calms me.

And despite her own challenges Masha’s is always there to help her friend Zhenya who has cerebral palsy. They are always inseparable and have become a great support to each other.

And many other young people like Masha have not only developed their learning skills at the Hearts of Love Center but have made many life-long friendships that have helped them through this ongoing time of conflict.

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