Ukrainian Children Explore Latvia in Jelgava Region Summer Camp
From June 6 to 15, a summer camp 'Discover Latvia!' was held in Jelgava region for 26 children from Ukraine, organized for the fifth year. The camp aimed to provide cultural exchange, emotional support, and positive experiences for children affected by war.
The Jelgava region municipality organized a recreational and adventure camp for Ukrainian children for the fifth consecutive year. This year’s camp took place from June 6 to 15, bringing together 26 young participants from the partner city of Rava-Ruska, along with six accompanying adults.
The camp is designed for children who have arrived in Rava-Ruska fleeing the most war-affected areas of Ukraine, whose parents serve in the Ukrainian armed forces, and for particularly talented children. The program aims to promote cultural exchange, provide emotional support, and offer positive experiences for young people living in challenging circumstances.
Over ten days, participants visited the Children’s and Youth Technology Festival, a sand sculpture exhibition in Jelgava, the Glūda parish festival, and played sports at the Valgunde sports hall. Excursions were organized to Riga, Jūrmala, Liepāja, and Bauska. Evenings were dedicated to friendly activities, hikes, creative workshops, and learning about local traditions.
Deputy Chairperson Ilze Vītola emphasized the importance of continuing such camps for war-affected children, as they provide a respite and allow them to momentarily forget the difficult and unsafe situation at home, feel support, and enjoy carefree moments with their peers.
The partnership between Jelgava region municipality and the city of Rava-Ruska in Lviv Oblast dates back to July 1, 2022, when a memorandum of cooperation was signed. Since the start of the war, the municipality, residents, and businesses have provided assistance in acquiring various items, from housing refugees to replenishing emergency services resources and procuring vehicles.
