Ukraine is experiencing the worst homeless animal crisis in European history.

Millions of Ukrainians have fled their homes due to Russia's violent invasion beginning in 2022. Unfortunately, while fleeing, many people were forced to leave their pets behind, setting them free to fend for themselves or leaving them in abandoned homes to starve. This has caused the largest homeless animal crisis in European history, especially as stray animals continue to reproduce. The number of homeless animals is at an unprecedented high and continues to grow rapidly.

In the aftermath, makeshift “mini-shelters” have emerged, run by Ukrainian locals who have selflessly stayed behind. These heroic volunteers take it upon themselves to rescue and care for abandoned animals, often taking them into their own homes. Some of these volunteers have dozens of animals living in small apartments. They provide food and medical attention, even as they struggle to survive the war themselves.

These volunteers come from humble backgrounds. Many of them have lost everything to the war. They have lost incomes, loved ones, and their own sense of safety. Still, they give everything they have left: their savings, their time, and their space to help these abandoned animals.

Due to the dire economic situation caused by the war, these caretakers are unable to receive sufficient donations to provide food and treatment to the animals in their care. With more homeless animals than ever and the worst economic crisis Ukraine has seen in decades, these heroes desperately need our help.

That is where we come in. Vovchik provides support to individual volunteers and makeshift mini-shelters so they can continue doing their life-saving work. Every dollar goes directly toward medical care, food, shelter, transportation, and other essential support for abandoned animals in war zones.

And here is the good news. American donations go a really long way in Ukraine. What may seem like an inconsequential amount to us can mean life or death to these animals.