In the ancient village of Vytachiv, perched above the Dnipro, a volunteer hub with the telling name “Vytachivski Sertsia” has been active for three years now. Women gather here every day to weave camouflage nets, knit, cook for the frontline — and simply to be together. For them, it has become not just a way to support the army, but a way to survive through pain, loss, and constant anxiety.

Oksana Vasylenko, a kindergarten teacher who came to Vytachiv back in 1979, says: “Our hub is called ‘Vytachivski Sertsia’ because everyone’s heart aches for Ukraine. We began by cutting up old sweaters and trousers to make nets. Now we have everything we need, but the most important thing is that we have each other.”

During the first weeks of the war, she cooked varenyky for Ukrainian soldiers, her son-in-law stood guard with a hunting rifle, and her daughter announced alerts from the village council. Over time, this spontaneous help grew into a true center of unity, where each woman is a part of one big family. “I have already celebrated three birthdays here,” says Ms. Oksana.

She adds that after Ukraine’s victory their circle will not fall apart: they have learned to do good together, and now this has become their way of life.