On October 17, a Therapeutic Garden opened in Kyiv at the VDNH, aimed at providing emotional support and recovery for veterans and anyone in need. This initiative was created in collaboration with the Ministry of Veterans Affairs and architectural firms Big City Lab and PUPA under the national strategy for creating accessible environments in Ukraine, initiated by the First Lady.

The Therapeutic Garden engages visitors through the five senses: sight, smell, hearing, touch, and taste. Its main goal is to promote health recovery through interaction with nature. The garden features a therapeutic gardening area, an adaptive sports ground, a space for physical practices, and a children's area for kids of participants in the programs.

“We all feel a strong need for safe and harmonious spaces, especially those who have suffered from the pain of war. In our garden, you can find such an atmosphere,” said Olena Zelenska during the opening.

Therapeutic programs for military personnel, veterans, and their families are currently being developed, while the garden remains open to all throughout the year.

All plants in the garden are arranged without strict lines, reflecting natural conditions, and they bloom at different times to keep the space lively throughout the year.

“Over the year, we researched various aspects of the project — functionality, infrastructure, and therapeutic programs. The garden is not just beautiful; it plays a vital role in rehabilitation,” explained Max Yakover.

The Therapeutic Garden is also equipped with a lighting system that creates meditative pathways and a cozy atmosphere.

The entire space is barrier-free: there are comfortable benches adapted for individuals with disabilities, as well as navigation for visually impaired individuals.

This project is an opportunity to create spaces that foster recovery and personal development. We are proud that the Expo Center serves as a platform for such initiatives,” emphasized the VDNH director.

The opening of the Therapeutic Garden was attended by government representatives, veterans, and activists.

The garden is being implemented as a pilot project with the potential for this format to spread across Ukraine.

The project is being realized with the support of Visa, PrivatBank, Work UA, Expolight, and the Ukrainian Red Cross.