25 Children from Ukraine Defenders’ Families Have Returned from a Trip to the Republic of Lithuania
At the invitation of Lithuanian colleagues, children went to visit and get to know the country's traditions and lifestyle within the framework of cooperation between Lutsk City Council and Taurage District Municipality Administration.
The children were hosted from July 25 to 31 in the summer junior shooting camp, that is located in the picturesque town of Smalininkai. The town itself is built on the banks of the Niman River and in the city of Taurage. In such difficult and challenging times, teenagers visited not only a place of safety, but also a place of complete care and unconditional love. Everything was thought out to the finest detail in order to make the children feel nice and comfortable.
During the week, a rich programme awaited the children: excursions and familiarization with the historical and cultural heritage of Lithuania, communication with peers, shooting camp, go-karting, horse farm, laser-shooting range, fire-rescue workshop, excursions, museums, the Baltic Sea, games, entertainment, attractions and extremes.
Young travellers enjoyed the ancient architecture of Taurus Castle. The children also visited the castle of Panemune and Rudone, the museum of the sculptor Vintsas Gribis as well as the ancient machinery museum, that contains materials from the historical past of the region. The children looked at more than 7,000 exhibits related to agriculture, crafts, everyday life and the development of technology in the Lithuanian region.
Lutsk citizens took a walk not only in the cities of Taurage, Smalininkai, but also in Palanga and Jurbarkas. They really liked the excursion to the popular resort town of Palanga, where the children walked through the landscape park of Count Tyshkevych and his palace.
In addition, travellers got captivated by the beauty of the Amber Museum. The trip to the Baltic Sea filled children with unforgettable emotions.
At the end of the trip, the organizers prepared a creative concert, where the Ukrainian children participated as well. They presented a patriotic flash mob and sang the song "Oh, the Red Viburnum in the Meadow."
Boys and girls spent their leisure time actively. In particular, they went to the entertainment center "Tauru Park", they played board and sports games. During the trip, Ukrainian and Lithuanian kids became good friends, they even exchanged gifts and contacts.
Such trips are crucial for children. First of all, it is an emotional release, rehabilitation, the change of scene for those children who have been living in war conditions all these days. Such trips and getaways abroad are of great importance for them, so that their psycho-emotional state is relieved.
The care and concern expressed by the residents of Lithuania towards Ukrainian children seemed absolutely touching. Locals radiated sincere support and inspiration, they presented children with gifts. Ukrainian colors were visible everywhere as a sign of solidarity with Ukraine.
Lutsk City Council is sincerely grateful to Mayor Dovydas Kaminskas and Taurage District Municipality Administration for inviting and welcoming a group of children. We express deep gratitude for the concern for the well-being of our country and support of Ukraine in the international arena.
Department of Social Services for Family, Children and Youth