"I was in Rudnytske during the occupation. We lacked food, and aid was delivered by ambulance from Baryshivka. It was nearly impossible to leave home. Meanwhile, Russians occupied our 'Art Pantry.' After liberation, I had to work with a psychologist. That's why I understand how important rehabilitation is for people—especially through art and creativity," says Antonina Polianychko, founder of the "Art Pantry" educational hub.
Rudnytske, a small village in Kyiv Region, had a population of 632 before the war, with a functioning school, kindergarten, and community center. However, Russian forces occupied the village in March 2022, destroying the school and kindergarten. A direct shell strike caused severe damage and a fire, forcing children to travel 7 kilometers to another village to attend school.
Now, the "Art Pantry" educational hub has become a vital space for children in Rudnytske to learn and socialize. Before the war, the village had an art club, which gradually expanded into the current hub.
"Initiatives often came from the community, and my job was to support them. For instance, some boys approached me, saying they wanted to learn chess, so we started a chess club," shares Polianychko.
The hub gained new significance with the arrival of internally displaced persons (IDPs) from other regions of Ukraine. Currently, 37 IDPs, including two large families, reside in the village.
The creation of the hub was supported by the "MHP to Communities" Charitable Foundation in partnership with ISAR Ednannia. It exemplifies how communities and charitable organizations can collaborate to improve quality of life. The hub offers a space for education, workshops, games, and events like first aid lessons, safety training, and even upcoming piano lessons.
The renovation of the hub cost UAH 500,000, covering a comprehensive overhaul of a 57-square-meter space, including new windows, doors, flooring, and ceilings. The hub was equipped with essential items such as acoustic equipment, a modem, router, screen, projector, chairs, and shelves. It can also serve as a resilience center if needed.
Rebuilding the local school remains a priority for Rudnytske. Before the war, the school served 127 children from Rudnytske and the neighboring village of Lukianivka.
"Families with children don't stay here long because the school isn't operational. Parents want their kids close by during martial law so they can quickly retrieve them in case of danger. We need a school like we need air," says Olha Melnychuk, a leading specialist in the Lukianivka District.
Rebuilding the school will require UAH 60 million—an unaffordable amount for the community. While the regional government seeks funds, the educational hub partially meets the needs of local children.
The hub is made possible by the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) within the Ukraine Civil Society Sectoral Support Activity implemented by ISAR Ednannia in partnership with the Ukrainian Center of Independent Political Research (UCIPR) and Centre for Democracy and Rule of Law (CEDEM).
