As the full-scale war in Ukraine enters its third year, much of the public attention — and resources — understandably remain focused on supporting those who have lost loved ones, are displaced, or have been evacuated from dangerous regions. But beyond the headlines are other equally urgent stories, like older people’s growing vulnerability and isolation.
Today, many older people in Ukraine live in hardship. Despite decades of work, they receive minimal pensions, often choosing between food and medicine. Many are cut off from their communities and left without regular support. In such circumstances, even the smallest gestures can carry profound meaning.
On April 17, Holy Thursday, the Malteser Relief Service organized its annual Easter Basket campaign in Lviv. For the seventeenth year, volunteers prepared and personally delivered Easter food packages to people spending the holidays alone or in difficult living conditions. Most recipients were elderly individuals, people with disabilities, or those with limited mobility.
Each basket contained traditional Easter foods — paska (Easter bread), ham, sausage, eggs, cheese, butter, horseradish, and a sweet poppy seed roll. However, as the organizers emphasize, the real value lies not in the contents but in the presence — the act of remembering, showing care, and being there.
“It’s not about what I receive, and it’s the fact that someone remembered me. I’m a retired teacher. I have no family. I’ve been through many surgeries, and now I have no one to even talk to. What Malteser does — it’s not just food; it’s spiritual nourishment. It’s the feeling that I’m not left alone with my pain and loneliness,” shared Alla, one of the recipients.
All deliveries were made individually. Many recipients are supported year-round by Malteser’s “Charity Kitchen” project, while social services or concerned neighbors refer others. Each basket was blessed at the Church of the Resurrection of Christ before delivery.
“Serving others is not just an act of mercy — it’s a conscious choice of responsibility. What you do is not bureaucracy; it’s love in action. And for that, we thank you,” said Fr. Serhii Shvahla, the parish priest.
In the context of the ongoing war, most resources naturally go toward military needs, evacuations, and reconstruction. Supporting less visible — but equally vulnerable — groups, such as isolated older people, has become increasingly complex.
“Support is always important, but during these difficult times, it becomes essential. The economic situation is extremely challenging, and more people than ever need help. It’s not just about food — it’s about making sure they know they matter,” said Myroslava Kurzhydlo, project manager at Malteser Relief Service.
Malteser’s work goes far beyond holiday campaigns. The organization runs long-term programs that support people in vulnerable situations, including homebound individuals, displaced families, those with disabilities, and people living in poverty. Their focus remains on continuity — being present when it’s visible and when needed most.
“The need doesn’t end when the holidays do. Many people have no one, and it doesn’t matter whether we know them personally or not. It could be a neighbor or a stranger — but our principle is the same: support should be regular, reliable, and responsible,” emphasized Pavlo Titko, Head of Malteser Relief Service in Ukraine.
The Easter Basket initiative also took place in Ivano-Frankivsk, where local volunteers gathered and distributed care packages to elderly individuals, people with disabilities, families grieving wartime losses, and those facing hardship. As in Lviv, these deliveries are part of a broader commitment to daily presence and long-term care.
About Malteser Relief Service
Malteser Relief Service has been operating in Ukraine for over 30 years. With branches in several regions, including Lviv and Ivano-Frankivsk, the organization supports older people, people with disabilities, large families, internally displaced people, children, and those affected by war and poverty. Malteser implements long-term humanitarian, social support, crisis response, and educational programs.
Every blessed basket is more than a seasonal tradition — a sign of lasting care for those often left alone, compassion in action, regardless of circumstance or calendar date.